Looking back at 5 historic Golden State Warriors players

Wilt Chamberlain

Wilt Chamberlain is undoubtedly one of the biggest names in NBA history. Best known for his time with the Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Lakers, however, basketball fans are quick to forget Chamberlain’s six seasons with the Warriors from 1959 to 1965. In fact, Wilt Chamberlain entered the league as a rookie with the team, back when they were still based in Philadelphia.

In his first year, Chamberlain averaged 37.6 points per game and 27.0 rebounds, stats that were unheard of. His following four seasons with the Warriors was much of the same. Chamberlain set league-highs, grabbing an average of 24.9 rebounds per game and 42.6 points per game, even averaging 50.4 points per game in his ’61-’62 season.

The 7’1″ center broke NBA records left and right, and the Warriors have been privileged to have seen Chamberlain at his prime. Despite his unparalleled success, Wilt Chamberlain was never able to win a championship with the team and was traded to the 76ers in 1965. Much of the team’s struggles surrounded the inability to take the pressure off of Chamberlain on the court. Opposing teams ganged up on him each game to minimize the damage.

Wilt Chamberlain’s relationship with the fans in San Francisco was strained as well. Although he was the enemy of teams, he was even underappreciated by his own city as well.

Today, we have come to know and love Wilt Chamberlain, the aforementioned players, and all other former Warriors. Although these players seem distant in the past, they have all contributed to the history of the team and league.