In 1993, the Detroit Pistons retired Bob Lanier’s jersey during a Pistons versus Golden State Warriors game. Lanier wore the No. 16 jersey for nine and a half seasons. He was the first overall pick in the 1970 NBA draft and was named to the 1971 NBA All-Rookie Team. He played under eight coaches in ten seasons and was the Piston’s all-time leader in scoring average (22.7 points per game). He ranks second in total rebounds (8,063) and third in total points (15,488). Lanier was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks where he finished his NBA career with 19,248 total points and 9,698 total rebounds in 959 games. Lanier is currently an NBA Cares Global Ambassador and was enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992.
Today in Sports History: January 9
