Nat Clifton: One Of The First African American Players To Integrate The NBA
Nat Clifton, also known as "Sweetwater," was one of the first African American players to integrate the NBA. His impact on the game and the league cannot be overstated, as he paved the way for future generations of players of color.
Childhood and High School Years
Nat Clifton was born on October 13, 1922, in Little Rock, Arkansas. He grew up in a time of racial segregation, where opportunities for African Americans were severely limited. Despite this, Clifton excelled in basketball and was a standout player at DuSable High School in Chicago, Illinois.
During his high school years, Clifton was known for his athleticism and his ability to play multiple positions. He was a key member of the DuSable basketball team, which won the 1940 Chicago Public League championship. Clifton's talent on the court earned him a scholarship to Xavier University in New Orleans.
Collegiate Years
Clifton played college basketball at Xavier University from 1942 to 1946. He was a dominant force on the court, leading Xavier to four straight SIAC championships. During his senior year, Clifton was named an All-American and led Xavier to the NAIA national championship.
Professional Years
After college, Clifton played for the Harlem Globetrotters, a team known for their entertaining style of play and their all-black lineup. Clifton's time with the Globetrotters allowed him to hone his skills and become one of the best players in the world.
In 1950, the NBA began to integrate, and Clifton was signed by the New York Knicks. He became one of the first African American players in the NBA, along with Earl Lloyd and Chuck Cooper. Clifton played for the Knicks for seven seasons, from 1950 to 1957, and was known for his physical play and his ability to play multiple positions.
During his time with the Knicks, Clifton averaged 10.0 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. He was named to the All-Star team in 1957, becoming the first African American player to receive this honor. Clifton's impact on the game and the league was significant, as he helped break down racial barriers and pave the way for future generations of players of color.
Years Post-Playing Basketball
After retiring from basketball, Clifton became a successful businessman and philanthropist. He owned several businesses, including a construction company and a barbershop, and was active in the community. Clifton also served as a mentor to young people and was known for his generosity and kindness.
In 1990, Clifton was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time. He passed away on August 31, 1990, at the age of 67.
Conclusion
Nat Clifton's impact on the NBA and the game of basketball cannot be overstated. He was a trailblazer who broke down racial barriers and paved the way for future generations of players of color. Clifton's talent on the court, combined with his generosity and kindness off the court, make him one of the most important players in the history of the game. His legacy will continue to inspire and influence players and fans for generations to come.