In 1997, Karl Malone of the Utah Jazz, became the first player to reach 2,000 points over 10 consecutive seasons in the NBA. Malone ended his career with 36,928 points (25 ppg) and 9,787 free throws (.742 free throw percentage). He currently holds the league record for regular season free throws. He also holds the record for games started at 1,471. Malone was selected 13th in the NBA’s 1985 draft by the Utah Jazz. He soon became known as one of the league’s most formable power forwards and teamed up with point guard John Stockton for one of the league’s most consistent guard-forward combinations which lasted 18 years. In addition to his NBA career, Malone was a member of the U.S. Men’s basketball team in 1992 and 1996. The Jazz retired Malone’s no. 32 jersey on March 23, 2006 and he was inducted into the half fame in 200710 for both his individual career and as a member of the 1992 “Dream Team.”
Today is Sports History: April 4
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - 1990: Karl Malone #32 of the Utah Jazz shoots circa 1990 at the Salt Palace in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1990 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)