Basketball Hall of Famer Passes Away

Basketball Hall of Famer Dolph Schayes passed away today at 87 years old. Schayes led the Syracuse Nationals (now the Philadelphia 76ers) to an NBA title in 1955. Schyes averaged 18.5 points, 12.1 rebounds and 3.1 assists in nine hundred ninety six games during his 15-year career. Only Schayes, Wilt Chamberlain, Elgin Baylor and Bob Pettit had similar career averages.NBA commissioner issued this statement on the passing of Schayes

Dolph Schayes was one of the most influential figures in NBA history. He helped the NBA grow from its earliest days, emerging as one of the game's first stars and displaying the kind of passion for competition and commitment to excellence that has come to define our league. Dolph was an NBA champion, a Hall of Fame player and a distinguished NBA coach and executive, as well as a proud father who relished the success of his four children, including the NBA career of his son Danny. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Schayes family during this difficult time.

As a former Syracuse area media member, I did interact with Dolph Schayes. In fact one of my most embarrassing moments in radio occurred with Dolph. I'll share that story with Armen and Levack later this week.