American · New York City · Born 19 May 1928American basketball player and Hall of Famer who was one of the NBA's first great big men, helping establish the professional game in its early years
Adolph Schayes was born in New York City in 1928 and attended New York University. New York Knicks drafted him but he signed with the Syracuse Nationals instead. His 16-season career produced averages of 18.5 points and 12.1 rebounds per game and 12 All-Star appearances. He was one of the first players to use the jump shot as a primary offensive weapon and among the earliest to shoot the ball from long range consistently. He won the NBA championship with the Syracuse Nationals in 1955. He was named to the All-NBA First Team six times. At the time of his retirement in 1964, he held the NBA records for most points, most games played and most free throws made. He was one of the most durable players of his era, playing through multiple fractures — including a broken wrist and a broken arm — because the game meant more than the pain. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1973 and named to the NBA 50th Anniversary Team in 1996. His son Danny Schayes also played in the NBA. He served as an NBA coach after his playing career. He is considered the first true star of the NBA's formative years.
Pioneering forward who combined size with shooting ability
How They Played
6'8" forward with exceptional free throw shooting and rebounding
Lasting Impact
NBA pioneer who helped establish the modern forward position
Career Honours
- NBA Champion (1955)
- All-Star 12x
- All-NBA First Team 6x
- NBA 50th Anniversary Team
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Syracuse Nationals | 1948–1963 | 996 |
| Philadelphia 76ers | 1963–1964 | 24 |
American Athletes