How Good Was George Mikan
George Mikan, also known as “Mr. Basketball,” was one of the most dominant and influential players in the history of the sport. Standing at 6’10” and weighing 245 pounds, he was a towering presence on the court during the 1940s and 1950s. His skills and impact on the game were such that he is considered by many to be one of the greatest players of all time.
Mikan began his basketball career at DePaul University, where he led the Blue Demons to the National Invitation Tournament championship in 1945. He was then drafted by the Minneapolis Lakers, where he would spend the majority of his professional career. During his time with the Lakers, Mikan led the team to five NBA championships. He was also a four-time All-Star and was named to the All-NBA Team six times.
One of Mikan’s greatest strengths was his scoring ability. He was a dominant force in the paint, using his size and strength to overpower defenders. He led the league in scoring for three seasons and finished his career with a scoring average of 23.1 points per game. Mikan also became the first player in NBA history to score 10,000 total career points. This scoring ability along with his dominance in the paint helped set the standard for centers that followed him. But Mikan was more than just a scorer. He was also a great rebounder and passer. He led the league in rebounding twice and finished his career with an average of 13.4 rebounds per game. He also had a career average of 2.8 assists per game, which may not have been much, but after all he was a center playing in the 50s. George Mikan’s all around, dominant game made him a complete player, who could affect the game in multiple ways.
Mikan’s impact on the game of basketball cannot be overstated. He is credited with popularizing the sport in the United States and was one of the first players to make basketball a legitimate professional sport. His dominant play helped establish the NBA as a major league and laid the foundation for the success that the league enjoys today. Mikan was also a pioneer for the players, as he led the way for players to earn more money and have more rights. In addition to his impressive career statistics, Mikan is remembered for his sportsmanship and his contributions to the game of basketball.
In conclusion, George Mikan was not only a great player but also a true ambassador of the sport. His dominant play, sportsmanship, and contributions off and on the court make him one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. His impact on the game will always be remembered, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players.