Jamaal Wilkes was born on February 2, 1953, in Berkeley, California. He grew up in a basketball family, as his father played the sport at the college level. Wilkes attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he played for legendary coach John Wooden and helped lead the Bruins to back-to-back NCAA championships in 1972 and 1973.
During his college career, Wilkes earned the nickname "Silk" for his smooth playing style and effortless scoring ability. He was known for his versatility on the court, able to play both guard and forward positions with equal skill.
In the 1974 NBA Draft, Wilkes was selected by the Golden State Warriors, where he would play for four seasons. He made an immediate impact, winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 1975 and helping the Warriors capture the NBA championship in 1975. Wilkes was a key contributor to the team, known for his scoring ability and stellar defense.
In 1977, Wilkes was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he would go on to win three more NBA championships in 1980, 1982, and 1985. He formed a formidable duo with superstar Magic Johnson, as the Lakers became one of the dominant teams of the era.
Wilkes was known for his consistency and reliability on the court, as well as his unselfish play and team-first mentality. He was a versatile scorer, able to score from inside and outside, and was a solid defender as well.
Off the court, Wilkes was known for his quiet demeanor and humble attitude. He was a role model for many young players, known for his work ethic and dedication to the game of basketball.
Wilkes is the father of three children, two of whom graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, and one from UCLA. He has been involved in various charitable endeavors and has remained active in the basketball community since retiring from the NBA.
Overall, Jamaal Wilkes is remembered as one of the greatest players of his era, a true champion both on and off the court.