American · Rayville, Louisiana · Born 17 November 1945American college basketball legend who led Houston to the 1968 Final Four and set numerous NCAA scoring records during his dominant college career.
Elvin Ernest Hayes was born in Rayville, Louisiana in 1945. He attended the University of Houston and became one of college basketball's most prolific scorers and rebounders. He averaged 31.0 points and 21.7 rebounds per game across his three varsity seasons — among the highest combined averages in college basketball history. His most celebrated moment came on January 20, 1968 — the Game of the Century — when Houston defeated UCLA 71-69 before 52,693 fans at the Houston Astrodome (the largest crowd in college basketball history at the time) with Hayes scoring 39 points and grabbing 15 rebounds against Alcindor (Kareem Abdul-Jabbar), who played through a scratched eye. The game was the first college basketball game broadcast nationally in prime time and is credited with transforming the sport's television appeal. Houston finished 31-2 that season. He was a two-time consensus All-American. San Diego Rockets selected him first overall in the 1968 NBA Draft. He went on to have a Hall of Fame professional career — winning the NBA championship with Washington in 1978 and accumulating 27,313 career points. The Game of the Century performance remains the defining individual game in his college career.
Leading Houston to a 71-69 victory over undefeated UCLA and Lew Alcindor in the 1968 'Game of the Century' at the Astrodome.
How They Played
Hayes was a versatile big man who could score from multiple positions on the court, combining excellent footwork with a reliable turnaround jumper. He was an exceptional rebounder with strong positioning and timing, using his length and athleticism to dominate the paint. His signature move was a fadeaway shot that was nearly impossible to block due to his height and technique.
Lasting Impact
Hayes helped elevate college basketball's national profile through his performances in televised games, particularly the 1968 showdown with UCLA that drew massive audiences. His success paved the way for future dominant big men in both college and professional basketball.
Career Honours
- NCAA scoring leader
- Southwest Conference champion
- All-American 2x
- National Player of Year consideration
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Houston Cougars | 1965–1968 | 93 |
American Athletes