The NBA will celebrate 75. Anniversary of the arrival of its first black players

1950 is the key year for the Great League. 25. April Chuck Cooper is The first black player selected on a draft ; A month later Nathaniel ‘Sveetvater’ Clifton was the first to sign with the NBA team; In the end, Earl Lloyd was the first to play the championship match for the first time. October.

Greet ” their resistance, their vision and their leadership (which) deeply transform the game », League and the players’ union (NBPA) decided to celebrate 75. Anniversary of the arrival of these pioneers.

As part of this celebration, Bucks and Celtici will start a traditional month dedicated to the history of Blacks (“Black Histors Moon”) during the first edition of “NBA Pioneers Classic”, 1. February.

This meeting is broadcast on ESPN, two teams will wear commemorative badges on jerseys as well as special heating shirts. The winning team will get a pioneering trophy. This match with symbolic dimensions will be held every 1. February in the future.

Tributes during the All-Star game

« Courage and determination of Chuck Cooper, Nat “Sveetvater” Clifton and Earl Lloid violated obstacles and changed the course in the history of the NBA. We look forward to paying homage to their permanent inheritance on this striking anniversary and many more years “, Entuonets Mark Tatum, Commissioner and Director of NBA operation.

« While we celebrate 75. Anniversary and inheritance of Pioneer NBA, we remind you that we are without courage, determination and resilience of black athletes, our league would not be what it is today. Our players thank them that the road to future generations and the influence that runs far outside the basketball courts came to “, Salves Erika Svillei, executive director of the NBPA Foundation.

During the month of the month and during all stars in Los Angeles in Los Angeles, the NBA and NBPA will organize community events, will place moments dedicated to pioneers or share educational resources in partnership with various organizations.

« On behalf of Cooper, Lloyd and Clifton families, we are grateful NBA and NBPA for this extremely recognition and for creating NBA Pioneers Classic and day pioneers. This allows you to live inheritance of our fathers and continue to inspire future generations, as well as fans “, Remert Chuck Cooper III.

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