Maurice Lucas, born on February 18, 1952 in Pennsylvania, was a legendary basketball player known for his tough and physical style of play. He first made a name for himself at Marquette University, where he helped lead the team to an NCAA championship appearance in 1974. His dominance on the court caught the attention of NBA scouts, and he was selected as the number two overall pick in the 1974 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls.
After being drafted by the Bulls, Lucas was immediately traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, where he would go on to have the most success of his career. Known for his tenacity and competitive spirit, Lucas quickly earned the nickname "The Enforcer" for his physical style of play on both ends of the court. He was a key player in the Trail Blazers' run to the NBA championship in 1977, where he played a vital role in leading the team to victory.
Lucas was a 5-time NBA All-Star during his career, showcasing his skills and dominance on the court year after year. His ability to score in the post, rebound relentlessly, and play tough defense made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing teams. He was known for his fierce competitiveness and his willingness to do whatever it took to win.
After retiring from the NBA, the Trail Blazers honored Lucas by retiring his #20 jersey in 1988, a fitting tribute to one of the greatest players in franchise history. His legacy as one of the toughest and most skilled power forwards in NBA history lives on, and he is remembered as a player who gave his all every time he stepped on the court.
Off the court, Lucas was a devoted family man, with his son David following in his footsteps and playing college basketball at Oregon State University. His close relationship with his son and his support and guidance throughout his basketball career showed the importance of family to Lucas, and he was proud to see his son carry on his legacy on the court.
During his time with the Trail Blazers, Lucas was teammates with Hall of Famer Bill Walton, forming a dynamic duo that led the team to great success. Walton, who had great respect for Lucas both on and off the court, named his son Luke Walton after his former teammate, a testament to the impact Lucas had on those around him.
Overall, Maurice Lucas was a true legend of the game, known for his toughness, skill, and competitive spirit. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest players in NBA history, a man who gave his all for the game he loved.