The New Jersey Nets retired Buck Williams’ no. 52 jersey during a 1999 game against the New York Knicks. Williams was the third overall pick in the 1981 NBA Draft by the New Jersey Nets and was awarded Rookie of the Year. He averaged 12 rebounds per game and was among the best power forwards in the league. In 1989 he was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers where he appeared in three Western Conference Finals and two NBA Finals. Williams ended his 17-year career with the New York Knicks where knee surgery forced him to miss 41 games in the 1997-98 season. Williams ended his 17-year career with 16,784 points and 13,017 rebounds and is one of only seven NBA players to surpass 16,000 points and 13,00 rebounds.
Today in Sports History: April 11
LOS ANGELES, CA - 1987: Buck Williams #52 of the New Jersey Nets shoots against the Los Angeles Clippers circa 1987 at the LA Sports Arena in Los Angeles, California. 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 1987 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)