Hal Greer, a six-foot-two guard who possessed great athleticism and a sweet shooting touch, and was deadly on the fast break, was one of the NBA's most durable and productive performers. When he retired in 1973, Greer had logged 1,122 games, most in league history. Greer's assault on the NBA's record books was considerable: He ranked among the top 10 all-time in points scored (21,586), field goals attempted (18,811), field goals made (8,504), minutes played (39,788) and personal fouls (3,825). In a 15-year career, Greer averaged 19.2 points per game¾eight seasons of 20 ppg or more¾and recorded 4,540 career assists. As a collegian at Marshall University, Greer became the first black to play for a major college team in West Virginia. He developed an accurate one-hand jump shot, and set Marshall's career record for field goal percentage (.545). Greer was named All-Conference in 1957 and 1958, and All-America in 1958.
After an outstanding college career (1,377 points, 19.4 ppg), Greer was selected in the second round by the Syracuse Nationals. In 15 seasons with Syracuse and the Philadelphia 76ers, Greer adjusted nicely to the pro game by relying on his two strengths: speed and natural athletic ability. Greer could single-handedly dominate games. He played in 10 NBA All-Star Games, and won the 1968 MVP Award after scoring 21 points, including a record 19 in one quarter. Greer joined Hall of Famers Wilt Chamberlain and Billy Cunningham to lead the 76ers to the NBA championship in 1967, ending Boston's string of eight consecutive titles. Greer's number 15 jersey was retired by the 76ers. He was named to the NBA's 50th Anniversary Team in 1996.
