(AURN News) — On this day in 1950, Earl Lloyd made history as the first African American to play in an NBA game. Drafted by the Washington Capitols in the ninth round, Lloyd debuted against the Rochester Royals on Oct. 31.
A standout forward known for his strong defense, he starred at West Virginia State College, leading the team to consecutive CIAA championships in 1948 and 1949. Lloyd earned all-conference honors three times and was named All-America twice by the Pittsburgh Courier.
After the Capitols folded in 1951, he joined the Syracuse Nationals, playing six seasons before finishing his career with the Detroit Pistons in 1960. Lloyd later coached the Pistons from 1972 to 1973 and went on to work as a scout. He passed away in 2015 at age 86.
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