The Golden State Warriors boast a deep and illustrious past, with more than six hundred athletes having proudly worn over sixty distinct jersey numbers throughout the franchise's seventy-five-year existence. Tracing its origins back to 1946 during the Basketball Association of America (BAA) era, the team has journeyed through various cities, including Philadelphia, San Francisco, Oakland, and even San Diego, establishing a rich and diverse legacy. This commemorative piece explores the history of these iconic jersey numbers and the remarkable players associated with them. Our focus for today is on the second of three players to grace the court wearing the distinguished number 71 for the Warriors, an athlete whose tenure marked a significant, albeit brief, chapter in the team's ongoing narrative.
McCoy McLemore: The No. 71 Legacy with the Golden State Warriors
In a fascinating look back at the Golden State Warriors' history, we delve into the brief but impactful career of McCoy McLemore, the second of three players to wear jersey number 71 for the franchise. McLemore, a skilled forward, was selected by the then-San Francisco Warriors as the 25th overall pick in the 1964 NBA Draft, following an impressive collegiate career at Drake. Hailing from Houston, Texas, McLemore spent his initial two professional seasons with the Warriors, showcasing his talent and contributing significantly to the team. During his tenure, he averaged 7.8 points and 6.2 rebounds per game. His time with the Warriors concluded when he was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in the 1966 expansion draft. Today, his legacy as an early wearer of the number 71 jersey remains a notable part of the team's storied past.
Reflecting on McLemore's journey with the Warriors provides a glimpse into the dynamic nature of early NBA rosters and the paths players carved out in the nascent stages of professional basketball. His contributions, though for a short period, underscore the dedication and athleticism of the individuals who laid the groundwork for the Warriors' enduring success. It's a testament to the fact that every player, regardless of the length of their stay, leaves an indelible mark on a team's history.