Artis Gilmore Biography: The Life and Career of the Legendary Basketball Player
Artis Gilmore is a former professional basketball player who played in both the American Basketball Association (ABA) and the National Basketball Association (NBA). He is widely regarded as one of the best players in ABA history and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011. In this article, we will explore the life and career of Artis Gilmore, from his early years to his post-professional life.
Born on September 21, 1949, in Chipley, Florida, Gilmore grew up in a family of 10 children. He attended Carver High School in Dothan, Alabama, where his basketball skills were first noticed. He went on to play college basketball at Jacksonville University, where he was a dominant force on the court. During his college career, he averaged 22.7 points and 17.2 rebounds per game, setting a record for the most rebounds in a college career with 2,201. After his college career, he was drafted by the Kentucky Colonels in the 1971 ABA Draft.
Gilmore’s professional career spanned from 1971 to 1988, during which he played for several teams, including the Kentucky Colonels, the Chicago Bulls, and the San Antonio Spurs. He was known for his dominant play in the paint, where he used his 7’2″ height and impressive wingspan to his advantage. He was an 11-time All-Star, a five-time All-ABA selection, and was named the ABA MVP and Rookie of the Year in his first season. After the ABA-NBA merger in 1976, Gilmore continued to play at a high level in the NBA, earning All-NBA honors in 1983 and 1984.
Key Takeaways
- Artis Gilmore is a former professional basketball player who played in both the ABA and the NBA, and is widely regarded as one of the best players in ABA history.
- Gilmore had a dominant college career at Jacksonville University, where he set a record for the most rebounds in a college career with 2,201.
- During his professional career, Gilmore was an 11-time All-Star, a five-time All-ABA selection, and was named the ABA MVP and Rookie of the Year in his first season.
Early Life
Artis Gilmore was born on September 21, 1949, in Chipley, Florida, to Otis and Mattie Lou Gilmore. He grew up in a large family with nine siblings. His father was a fisherman, and his mother was a homemaker who looked after the children.
Gilmore attended Carver High School in Dothan, Alabama, where he played basketball. He was a standout player and led his team to the state championship in his senior year. After graduating from high school, Gilmore enrolled at Gardner-Webb College in Boiling Springs, North Carolina.
In his freshman year, Gilmore played basketball for the Gardner-Webb Bulldogs. He averaged 22.5 points and 17.9 rebounds per game, leading the team to a 26-4 record. However, Gilmore left Gardner-Webb after his freshman year and transferred to Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, Florida.
At Jacksonville, Gilmore continued his basketball career and became a star player. In his two years at Jacksonville, he led the team to a 60-8 record and a runner-up finish in the 1970 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament. He was named the NCAA Division I Basketball Player of the Year in 1971.
Gilmore graduated from Jacksonville University in 1971 with a degree in sociology. After college, he was selected by the Kentucky Colonels in the 1971 American Basketball Association (ABA) draft.
College Career
Artis Gilmore played college basketball at various institutions. He began his college career at Gardner-Webb Junior College in Boiling Springs, North Carolina, where he played from 1967 to 1969. Under coach Eddie Holbrook, Gilmore led Gardner-Webb to the NJCAA tournament in 1968 and 1969, playing alongside George Adams.
After completing his stint at Gardner-Webb, Gilmore transferred to Jacksonville University, where he continued his basketball career. He was a two-time All-American honoree in 1969-70 and 1970-71, and he led the nation in rebounding both seasons. Gilmore helped the Dolphins to an NCAA Finals appearance in 1970. He finished his college career with 1,312 points (24.3 average) and 1,224 rebounds (22.7). At the time of his induction, Gilmore was also the NCAA’s all-time leading rebounder.
Jacksonville University
Gilmore’s time at Jacksonville University was marked by exceptional performances and accolades. He was named the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Player of the Year in 1971-72 and was a three-time NCAA All-American. During his time at Jacksonville, Gilmore was also a member of the United States men’s basketball team that won the gold medal at the 1971 Pan American Games.
Gilmore’s success at Jacksonville University paved the way for a successful professional career. He was drafted by the Kentucky Colonels in the first round of the 1971 ABA draft and went on to have a dominant career in both the ABA and the NBA.
Professional Career
ABA Career
Artis Gilmore started his professional career in the American Basketball Association (ABA) with the Kentucky Colonels in 1971. He quickly became one of the league’s best players, earning five ABA All-Star selections and leading the Colonels to the ABA Championship in 1975. During his time in the ABA, Gilmore was known for his impressive rebounding and shot-blocking abilities, as well as his efficient scoring and accuracy from the field.
NBA Career
After the ABA merged with the NBA in 1976, Gilmore was selected by the Chicago Bulls in the dispersal draft. He continued to excel in the NBA, earning six NBA All-Star selections and leading the league in field goal percentage twice. Gilmore played for the Bulls from 1976 to 1982, and then played for the San Antonio Spurs from 1982 to 1987. He finished his NBA career with the Boston Celtics in 1988.
Throughout his NBA career, Gilmore was known for his impressive size, standing at 7’2″ tall, and his dominant presence in the paint. He was a consistent scorer and rebounder, averaging 18.8 points and 12.3 rebounds per game over his NBA career. Gilmore was also an excellent defender, leading the league in blocks per game in the 1981-82 season.
Gilmore retired from professional basketball in 1988, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest centers of his era. In recognition of his accomplishments, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011.
Post-Professional Career
After retiring from professional basketball, Artis Gilmore continued to be involved in the sport through coaching and community involvement.
Coaching Career
Gilmore started his coaching career as an assistant coach for the Chicago Bulls in 1994. He then moved on to coach at the college level, serving as an assistant coach for the Jacksonville University Dolphins from 1997 to 2000. In 2001, he was named the head coach of the Jacksonville Dolphins men’s basketball team, a position he held until 2004.
Community Involvement
Throughout his career, Gilmore has been active in the community. He has worked with numerous charities and organizations, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Special Olympics. He has also been involved in promoting education and literacy, serving as a spokesperson for the “Read to Achieve” program.
In addition, Gilmore has been recognized for his contributions to the community. In 2010, he was inducted into the South Carolina Hall of Fame, and in 2011, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
Overall, Artis Gilmore has continued to make a positive impact on the world of basketball and beyond, using his skills and experience to benefit others.
Legacy
Artis Gilmore’s legacy in basketball is cemented by his numerous accolades and contributions to the game. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011, cementing his place among the greatest players of all time.
Hall of Fame Induction
Gilmore’s induction into the Hall of Fame was a testament to his incredible career. He was an 11-time All-Star, a five-time All-ABA selection, and won an ABA championship in 1975. He was also named the ABA MVP and Rookie of the Year in his debut season. In addition, he was a five-time All-Defensive Team selection and a member of the ABA All-Time Team.
Impact on the Game
Gilmore’s impact on the game of basketball cannot be overstated. His size and athleticism made him a dominant force in the paint, and his shooting touch made him a threat from anywhere on the court. He was a pioneer for big men, paving the way for players like Shaquille O’Neal and Dwight Howard.
Off the court, Gilmore has been a role model and mentor to countless players. He has worked with the NBA and the NCAA to promote basketball and help young players develop their skills. His contributions to the game will continue to be felt for generations to come.
In conclusion, Artis Gilmore’s legacy in basketball is one of greatness and impact. His induction into the Hall of Fame and his contributions to the game both on and off the court have earned him a place among the all-time greats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What teams did Artis Gilmore play for in his career?
Artis Gilmore played for several teams during his career, including the Kentucky Colonels and San Antonio Spurs in the ABA, and the Chicago Bulls, San Antonio Spurs, and Boston Celtics in the NBA.
Is Artis Gilmore in the NBA Hall of Fame?
Yes, Artis Gilmore was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on August 12, 2011.
What is Artis Gilmore’s height and weight?
Artis Gilmore is a former professional basketball player who stands at 7 feet 2 inches (2.18 m) tall and weighs around 240 pounds (109 kg).
Did Artis Gilmore win any rings?
Artis Gilmore won one ABA championship ring with the Kentucky Colonels in 1975. However, he did not win an NBA championship during his career.
Where is Artis Gilmore now?
Artis Gilmore is retired from professional basketball. He currently resides in Jacksonville, Florida, where he is involved in various community and charity initiatives.
Who is Artis Gilmore II?
Artis Gilmore II is the son of Artis Gilmore. He is also a former professional basketball player who played for Jacksonville University and overseas.