Nate “Tiny” Archibald

College Career
University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) (1967–1970)
Played under Hall of Fame coach Don Haskins.
Averaged 16.4 points and 4.7 assists per game during his college career.
Despite his smaller stature, Archibald’s speed, scoring, and leadership made him a standout at UTEP.
Helped the Miners remain competitive in the NCAA tournament during his tenure.
NBA Career (1970–1984)
Drafted by the Cincinnati Royals (later the Kansas City-Omaha Kings) in the 1970 NBA Draft (2nd round, 19th overall).

NBA Teams
Cincinnati Royals/Kansas City Kings (1970–1976)
New York Nets (1976–1977)
Boston Celtics (1978–1983)
Milwaukee Bucks (1983–1984)
Career Achievements
6× NBA All-Star (1973, 1975, 1976, 1980, 1981, 1982)
NBA Champion (1981) with the Boston Celtics
NBA All-Star Game MVP (1981)
All-NBA First Team (3 times)
All-NBA Second Team (2 times)
Historic 1972-73 Season
Archibald led the NBA in both scoring and assists, averaging 34.0 points and 11.4 assists per game for the Kansas City Kings.
He remains the only player in NBA history to lead the league in both categories in a single season.
Career Statistics
Points: 16,481 (18.8 PPG)
Assists: 6,476 (7.4 APG)
Games Played: 876
Playing Style and Legacy
Archibald was known for his ability to penetrate defenses, create plays for teammates, and score from anywhere on the court despite his smaller size (6’1″).
His speed and court vision revolutionized the point guard position.
Hall of Fame and Post-NBA Honors
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Induction (1991)
NBA 50th Anniversary Team (1996)
NBA 75th Anniversary Team (2021)
Inducted into the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame (2006)
Jersey #1 retired by the Sacramento Kings
Legacy and Influence
Archibald’s 1981 championship with the Boston Celtics, alongside Larry Bird, marked a key turning point in his career after battling injuries.
His contributions to basketball remain influential, as he paved the way for smaller guards to become scoring threats while also serving as elite playmakers.
Post-Retirement Contributions
Archibald has been actively involved in community work and youth mentorship programs, particularly in his native Bronx, New York.
He served as an assistant coach and ambassador for the NBA, helping develop future generations of players.
Nate “Tiny” Archibald’s dynamic career and pioneering impact on the point guard position cemented his status as an all-time basketball legend and Hall of Famer.