When I hear the name Wes Unseld the Washington Bullets/Wizards comes immediately to my mind. Part of it might be for the time I spent in the DC area, my age but the majority of it would be due to Wes Unseld's contribution to the organization.
His entire career in the NBA as a player, coach and executive was with one organization. The Baltimore Bullets, the Capital Bullets, Washington Bullets, and Washington Wizards. The organization changed locations and even names but Unseld was a constant.
As a player Unseld made an impact right away earning the Rookie of the Year Award and NBA MVP Award in 1969. He was a five time All-Star. He was on an NBA Championship team and was the NBA Finals MVP. His number 41 was retired by the organization and his play on the court allowed him membership into the NBA Hall of Fame.
Highlights from one of his games in 1973 against the New York Knicks...
His NBA Career was proceeded with his college playing days at Louisville. He was a three time first team all conference player. He was a two time first team All-American. His college number was retired at Louisville. His number in college was 31.
After his playing career ended he was a vice president for the organization, then a coach for seven seasons, after coaching he was the team's general manager for several years.
He made an impact on and off the court. He will be missed in the community, by the fans, and his friends and family.
