Elgin Baylor Then and Now

Elgin Baylor Then

Elgin Baylor, born on September 16, 1934, in Washington, D.C., is celebrated as one of the greatest basketball players in history.

An All-American at Seattle University, Baylor led his team to the NCAA championship tournament finals in 1958. 

Selected as the first overall pick in the 1958 NBA draft by the Minneapolis Lakers, Baylor earned Rookie of the Year honors in his debut season. 

Throughout his 14-year career, he averaged 27.4 points per game, with a remarkable 38.2 average in the 1961-62 season, despite playing only on weekends due to his commitments as a U.S. Army reservist. 

Baylor set numerous records, including a then-record 71 points in a single game in 1960 and the single-game scoring record for the NBA finals with 61 points against the Boston Celtics in 1962. 

Although he played alongside legendary teammates like Wilt Chamberlain, Jerry West, and Gail Goodrich, Baylor never won an NBA championship. 

However, his achievements earned him a spot on the All-NBA first team 10 times, and he retired as the NBA’s third-leading all-time rebounder with 11,463 career rebounds. 

Baylor was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1976 and was named one of the NBA’s 50 greatest players of all time in 1996.

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Is Elgin Baylor an NBA Champion?

No, despite his illustrious career and playing alongside some of the finest players in Laker history, Elgin Baylor never won an NBA championship.

What is Elgin Baylor Known For?

Elgin Baylor is known for his exceptional scoring ability, athleticism, and versatility on the basketball court. 

He set numerous records during his career, including a 71-point game and the single-game scoring record for the NBA finals with 61 points.

Baylor was a ten-time All-NBA first-team selection and is considered one of the greatest players in NBA history.

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When Did Elgin Baylor Retire from the NBA?

Elgin Baylor retired from the NBA in 1972, ending his 14-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Where is Elgin Baylor?

Elgin Baylor passed away on March 22, 2021, in Los Angeles, California. His legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time continues to be celebrated.

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Elgin Baylor Wife

Elgin Baylor, a basketball legend, had a personal life marked by his marriages and family. 

He was first married to Ruby Saunder, and the couple had a daughter named Elaine.

However, their marriage ended in divorce. Baylor later married Elaine Cunningham in 1971, and they remained together until his passing in 2021.

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Baylor’s family was a source of pride and support throughout his career and beyond. 

His daughter Elaine Baylor has largely stayed out of the public eye, maintaining a private life away from the spotlight that often followed her father’s illustrious basketball career. 

Baylor’s marriage to Elaine Cunningham was characterized by mutual support and companionship, contributing to his stability and success both on and off the court.

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Elgin Baylor Now

Elgin Baylor, who passed away at the age of 86 on March 22, 2021, in Los Angeles, California, is remembered as one of the greatest forwards in the history of professional basketball. 

Known for his graceful style of play, Baylor’s ability to score and rebound with ease made him a standout player throughout his career. 

Despite facing the challenges of balancing his basketball career with military service, he consistently delivered extraordinary performances. 

His legacy endures through his numerous records, accolades, and the impact he had on the game.

What Happened to Elgin Baylor?

Elgin Baylor passed away on March 22, 2021, at the age of 86 in Los Angeles, California. He left behind a legacy as one of basketball’s greatest players, known for his scoring prowess and exceptional athleticism.

How Many Rings Does Elgin Baylor Have?

Despite his remarkable career and numerous achievements, Elgin Baylor never won an NBA championship ring.

Was Elgin Baylor in the Military?

Yes, Elgin Baylor served as a U.S. Army reservist during his NBA career. Remarkably, he played many of his games only on weekends and without practicing with his team due to his military commitments.

What are Some Fun Facts About Elgin Baylor?

• Elgin Baylor once scored 71 points in a single game in 1960, setting an NBA record at the time.
• He holds the single-game scoring record for the NBA Finals, with 61 points against the Boston Celtics in 1962.
• Despite his military service, he averaged 38.2 points per game during the 1961-62 season, playing only on weekends.
• Baylor was a ten-time All-NBA first-team selection.
• He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1976.
• In 1996, he was named one of the NBA’s 50 greatest players of all time.