Wilt is back in the news because of Kobe’s 81 point outburst.
I’ve always heard that he quit basketball a little early and could have played a few more years. Does anyone remember why he retired when he did? I recall he often “threatened” to come back and play, but never did.
I know he became a good pro volleyball player. Can you imagine getting spiked by him (even at 40 years old)?
it must be said, and i feel that i must be the first to say it…even though it’s slightly off topic…
but wilt chamberlain is the best basketball player of all time.
…and no, i don’t know the reason. i like that he went and tried stuff out after he left, though…that’s a good thing, in my opinion.
He played from the 59-60 season to the 72-73 season. This came after a one year stint with the Globetrotters. That is a pretty long career.
Wikipedia says:
Having watched Bill Russell and Chamberlain go head to head, I’d say you just might be wrong.
Perhaps he wanted to dedicate more time and energy to his romantic interests. :dubious:
Kidding.
Perhaps he truly wanted to go out on top, and be remembered as having a good long solid career, instead of hanging on for a few seasons of decline.
Cartooniverse
I think that Bill Russell going out at a pretty high level too also entered into Chamberlain’s thoughts.
Centers in the NBA usually have longer careers than other positions because they have less ground to cover while they play. You can keep an older 7-footer around to park himself in the post for 10-15 minutes a game at age 40 or older.
Moses Malone and Artis Gilmore played for a long time.
Robert Parish, anyone? 