The National Basketball Association lost
two former members in the last few weeks with the passing of Earl Lloyd and Anthony Mason. Lloyd was the first African American NBA player, and Mason was an integral part of the great teams the New Yorks Knicks had in the 1990s.
Earl Lloyd broke the color barrier of the NBA on October 31, 1950, for the Washington Capitals. The hatred and bigotry he endured during the Jim Crow era in the United States paved the way for the stars that we cheer for in the NBA today. Lloyd’s contribution can’t be questioned. His efforts to advance equality in the NBA were recognized in 2003 as he was inducted into the Pro Basketball Hall of Fame.
Anthony Mason was an undrafted free agent out of Tennessee State University but climbed the ranks and starred on the New York Knicks en route to a 13-year playing career.
His gritty play and ferocity fit right in with the Pat Riley coached Knicks. Both Earl Lloyd and Anthony Mason will be missed by basketball fans around the world.
Earl Lloyd (NBA.com)
Anthony Mason (Giantbomb.com)