David Thompson: A Basketball Legend

Early Life and Career

David O'Neil Thompson, born on July 13, 1954, is an American former professional basketball player. He began his illustrious career in the American Basketball Association (ABA) with the Denver Nuggets. In his rookie season, he won the ABA Rookie of the Year award.

NBA Draft and Denver Nuggets

Thompson's exceptional talent earned him the 1st overall pick in the 1975 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks. However, he chose to remain with the Denver Nuggets in the ABA. During his eight seasons with the Nuggets, he averaged an impressive 22.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game.

Career Highlights

Scoring Explosion

On April 9, 1978, Thompson showcased his offensive prowess by scoring an astounding 73 points against the Detroit Pistons. This remains the highest single-game scoring performance in Nuggets franchise history.

Star Power

Thompson was a prominent figure in the Nuggets' potent lineup, playing alongside other stars such as George McGinnis and Bobby Jones. Together, they led the Nuggets to the ABA championship title in 1976.

SuperSonic Speed

After the ABA-NBA merger, Thompson joined the Seattle SuperSonics. He continued to impress, averaging 20.4 points per game over four seasons.

Legacy

David Thompson's contributions to basketball are undeniable. He was a gifted scorer, a talented all-around player, and a key member of both ABA and NBA championship teams. His impact on the game continues to be celebrated by fans and historians alike.