Bob Love is a former professional basketball player who is best known for his tenure with the Chicago Bulls. He was a small forward who spent 10 seasons with the team and eventually had his jersey number, #10, retired in his honor. Love was born on August 12, 1942 in Bastrop, Louisiana.
Love was a standout player even in his college days, playing for Southern University where he was named an All-American. His talent and work ethic caught the attention of many and eventually led to his entry into the professional league.
Love was drafted by the Cincinnati Royals in 1965 but was soon traded to the Chicago Bulls. It was with the Bulls where he truly made a name for himself as a player. Known for his scoring ability and versatility on the court, Love became a fan favorite and a key player for the team.
Throughout his career, Love played under the coaching of Hall of Famer Dick Motta, who helped shape him into the player he became. Love's dedication to the game and his team made him a respected figure both on and off the court. He was known for his smooth shooting stroke and his ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
Off the court, Love had a tumultuous personal life. He was married twice, with his second wife being Rachel Dixon. Despite the challenges in his personal life, Love remained focused on his basketball career and continued to excel on the court.
After 10 seasons with the Chicago Bulls, Love decided to retire from professional basketball. His impact on the team and the sport was undeniable, leading to the retirement of his jersey number, making him only the second player in Bulls history to receive such an honor.
Even after his retirement, Love remained active in the basketball community, mentoring young players and sharing his knowledge and experiences with the next generation of athletes.
Bob Love's legacy as a player and a person continues to inspire many to this day. His dedication to the game, his perseverance through personal struggles, and his contribution to the sport of basketball make him a true icon in the world of sports.