Artis Gilmore was born on September 21, 1949, in Chipley, Florida. Growing up, he showed a natural talent for basketball and quickly made a name for himself on the court. His height, standing at 7 feet 2 inches, made him a formidable presence on the basketball court from a young age.
After high school, Gilmore attended Gardner-Webb Junior College, where he dominated the competition. He set a college record for the highest rebounds per game average in Division 1 history, averaging an incredible 22.7 rebounds per game. His performance caught the attention of scouts from top universities, leading him to transfer to Jacksonville University.
During his time at Jacksonville University, Gilmore continued to showcase his exceptional skills and was a force to be reckoned with on the court. His dominance on both ends of the floor solidified his reputation as one of the best college basketball players of his time.
After college, Gilmore was selected by the Chicago Bulls in the 1971 NBA Draft. He made an immediate impact in the league, earning a reputation as one of the most dominant centers in the game. His size, strength, and agility made him a formidable opponent for any team, and he quickly became a fan favorite.
During his time with the Bulls, Gilmore was named to the NBA All-Star team six times. He was a key player for the Bulls and helped lead the team to multiple playoff appearances. His presence in the paint made a significant difference on both offense and defense, and he was a vital part of the team's success during his time in Chicago.
After his tenure with the Bulls, Gilmore was traded to the San Antonio Spurs, where he continued to excel on the court. He was instrumental in the team's success and was a leader both on and off the court. His skill and leadership helped the Spurs become a competitive force in the NBA, and he left a lasting legacy with the franchise.
Artis Gilmore retired with several accolades to his name, including an NBA record for a 59.9% career field-goal percentage. His efficiency and consistency on the court set him apart from his peers, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest centers in basketball history.
Off the court, Gilmore had a family of his own, raising five children with his wife, Enola Gay. His dedication to his family mirrored his dedication to the game of basketball, and he instilled the values of hard work and perseverance in his children.
After retiring from the NBA, Gilmore continued to be involved in basketball through coaching and mentoring young players. His knowledge and experience were invaluable to the next generation of athletes, and he left a lasting impact on the sport.
Throughout his career, Artis Gilmore exemplified the qualities of a true champion both on and off the court. His legacy continues to inspire basketball players around the world, and his impact on the game will never be forgotten.