David O. Thompson

With lightning quick moves, an explosive 44-inch vertical leap, and a precise shooting touch, David Thompson often left opposing defenders in his dust. According to rumor, while at North Carolina State University, the awe-inspiring Thompson was able to grab a quarter off the top of a backboard. A three-time Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year, he was also considered the conference's greatest player. During his junior year at NC State, Thompson led the Wolfpack to the NCAA title and earned Most Outstanding Player honors. Thompson began his pro career as the ABA's Rookie of the Year in 1976. Thompson starred for nine ABA/NBA seasons with the Denver Nuggets and Seattle Supersonics. The high-flying guard/forward averaged 20 or more points per game for six consecutive seasons. His prolific scoring record was highlighted by the 73 points he tallied in the final game of the 1978 season in the closest scoring title race in NBA history.