This week we lost a trail blazer in the NBA.

Earl F. Lloyd was the 1st African-American to play in the NBA. He entered the NBA during the 1950-51 season with Chuck Cooper, Nathaniel Clifton, and Hank DeZonie. Lloyd played from 1950-1960; in 1955 he won a NBA Championship with Syracuse.

After his playing career Lloyd coached the Detroit Pistons from 1971-1972.

It’s a shame that Lloyd is not talked about more for his accomplishments. I consider myself a sports fanatic and I can’t recall ever hearing about Earl Lloyd. Not even during Black History Month have I ever heard the NBA acknowledge Lloyd.

Baseball does a great job celebrating Jackie Robinson every year. It’s time for NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and the NBA to step up and do a better job celebrating heroes like Earl Lloyd!

 

As always….

If there is something to be said, “It’s On Broadway” to step up and say it!!