Walt Hazzard, born on April 15, 1942, in Wilmington, Delaware, was a talented basketball player from a young age. He attended Overbrook High School in Philadelphia where he quickly made a name for himself on the basketball court. Hazzard was named Philadelphia's player of the year during his time at Overbrook, setting the stage for a successful career in the sport.
Hazzard went on to play college basketball at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). He was a key player for the Bruins and helped lead them to their first national championship in 1964. Hazzard's skill and leadership on the court earned him recognition as one of the top players in college basketball during his time at UCLA.
In addition to his college success, Hazzard also had the opportunity to represent the United States on the international stage. He was a member of the 1964 Olympic basketball team that won a gold medal, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier basketball player.
After his college career, Hazzard went on to play in the NBA. He was selected as an NBA All-Star in 1968 while playing for the Seattle SuperSonics. Hazzard's skills as a guard made him a valuable asset to his teams, showcasing his versatility and talent on the court.
Off the court, Hazzard was a devoted family man. He and his wife Jaleesa had four children together, named Yakub, Jalal, Rasheed, and Khalil. Despite his busy basketball career, Hazzard always made time for his family and cherished the moments spent with his loved ones.
Throughout his basketball career, Hazzard made a lasting impact on the sport. His leadership, skill, and dedication to the game set him apart as a true basketball legend. He played alongside some of the greats of his time, including Elgin Baylor on the Los Angeles Lakers, leaving a lasting impression on the basketball world.
Walt Hazzard's contributions to basketball will always be remembered, from his college success at UCLA to his Olympic gold medal and NBA All-Star selection. He will forever be known as a trailblazer in the sport and a respected figure both on and off the court.