Alex English

Alex English – Hall of Fame Career
High School
Alex English grew up in Columbia, South Carolina, and became a standout at Dreher High School. Despite his quiet demeanor, he established himself as one of the most skilled forwards in the state, earning a scholarship to play college basketball.
College Career
English starred at the University of South Carolina from 1972 to 1976, where he became the school’s all-time leading scorer at the time. He was a two-time All-American and left as one of the most efficient shooters in program history. His versatility and smooth mid-range game quickly made him a pro prospect.
NBA Career
Alex English entered the NBA in 1976 and went on to build a legendary 16-year career, best known for his time with the Denver Nuggets.
Scoring Mastery: He scored over 25,000 career points and led the NBA in scoring during the 1982–83 season with 28.4 points per game.
Consistency: From 1980 to 1989, English averaged over 21 points per game every season, making him one of the most consistent scorers of the decade.
Accolades: He was named to eight NBA All-Star Games and earned three All-NBA Team selections.
Denver Nuggets Legacy: English is the Nuggets’ all-time leading scorer and helped lead the team to nine straight playoff appearances, including a trip to the 1985 Western Conference Finals.
Post-NBA Life
After retiring in 1991, English turned to coaching and community work. He served as an assistant coach in the NBA and also acted in films, including a role in “Amazing Grace and Chuck.” Beyond basketball, he has dedicated time to philanthropic efforts, focusing on youth and education programs.
Hall of Fame & Honors
Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1997.
Member of the College Basketball Hall of Fame.
Named to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.
Denver Nuggets retired his No. 2 jersey in honor of his contributions.
Career Snapshot
NBA Career: 1976–1991
Points: 25,613 (21.5 ppg)
Rebounds: 6,538 (5.5 rpg)
Assists: 4,351 (3.6 apg)
Accolades: 8× NBA All-Star, NBA Scoring Champion (1983), Hall of Fame Inductee (1997)
Alex English’s career is defined by elegance, efficiency, and quiet dominance. Though never as flashy as some of his contemporaries, he remains one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history and a true ambassador of the game.