Ranking the top 50 players in NBA history…
15. Oscar Robertson
“The Big O” was a trailblazing guard who redefined versatility.
Selected at No. 1 overall by the Cincinnati Royals in 1960 out of the University of Cincinnati, where he was a three-time All-American, Robertson played 14 NBA seasons (Royals 1960-1970, Milwaukee Bucks 1970-1974).
He averaged 25.7 points, 9.5 assists and 7.5 rebounds per game, becoming the first player to average a triple-double for a season (1961-62: 30.8 PPG, 11.4 APG, 12.5 RPG).
Story continues below advertisement
A 12-time All-Star, he won NBA MVP in 1964 and Rookie of the Year in 1961. He also earned All-NBA honors 11 times (nine First Team).
Robertson led the Bucks to the 1971 championship alongside Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. He retired with 26,710 points, 9,887 assists (then an NBA record) and 7,804 rebounds.
As president of the players’ union, he fought for free agency, culminating in the 1976 settlement that set a brand new precedent still impacting players today.
Story continues below advertisement
Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1980, Robertson’s legacy as a bigger guard paved the way for Magic Johnson and others with his all-around game. He was always in control on the floor and played the game intelligently.
Despite racial barriers early on, Robertson gained the respect of the entire sports world. Post-retirement, he became a broadcaster and advocate.
