Jamaal Wilkes

Jamaal Wilkes made a mark wherever he was. From Berkeley, California, Wilkes personified California basketball, at 6’6”, a deadly shooter, an all-star defender and a very reliable rebounder. At UCLA, he was a key player on the team’s record 88 game winning streak under legendary coach John Wooden. Wilkes had a smooth style that gave him the nickname “Silk”. Following his triumphant years with the Bruins, he was an immediate star in the NBA. A first round draft choice of the Warriors, he won Rookie of the Year honors and the first of four championships. As a Laker, Wilkes was an anchor of the Eighties Showtime team. A three-time all-star, whatever team he was on, he won. He was an exceptional outside shooter with an unorthodox shot, which Hall of Fame broadcaster Chick Hearn called “a 20-foot layup”. Hall of Fame Laker owner Jerry Buss said, of Wilkes, “A rare combination of selflessness and grace, Jamaal made the game look effortless.”