Walt “Clyde” Frazier

Walt “Clyde” Frazier: Career and Hall of Fame Recap

Full Name: Walter “Clyde” Frazier

Position: Point Guard / Shooting Guard

Height: 6’4″

College: Southern Illinois University

NBA Draft: 1967, 1st Round (5th Overall) by the New York Knicks

Hall of Fame: Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (1987)

College Career (Southern Illinois University, 1964–1967)

Points: 1,393 (17.0 PPG)

Rebounds: 539 (6.7 RPG)

Assists: 266 (3.3 APG)

Achievements:

Frazier was a standout player for Southern Illinois, earning All-Conference honors and developing into a highly skilled and versatile player.

He became known for his leadership, scoring, and passing ability, which translated into an excellent professional career.

NBA Career (1967–1980)

Teams:

New York Knicks (1967–1977)

Cleveland Cavaliers (1977–1980)

Career Achievements:

2× NBA Champion (1970, 1973)

7× NBA All-Star (1970–1973, 1975, 1976, 1977)

NBA Finals MVP (1972–73)

2× All-NBA First Team (1970, 1974)

4× All-NBA Second Team (1971, 1972, 1975, 1976)

All-NBA Third Team (1973)

NBA All-Defensive First Team (1975, 1976)

NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1971, 1972, 1973)

Career Points: 15,581 (18.9 PPG)

Career Rebounds: 4,830 (5.9 RPG)

Career Assists: 5,040 (6.1 APG)

NBA All-Rookie First Team (1968)

Signature Moments:

1970 NBA Championship: Walt Frazier played a pivotal role in the New York Knicks’ first-ever NBA championship in 1970, with an unforgettable game 7 performance in which he scored 36 points and dished out 19 assists in the series-clinching victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.

1973 NBA Championship: Frazier led the Knicks to another title in 1973, where he was crucial on both ends of the floor.

1972–73 NBA Finals MVP: Frazier’s play in the 1973 Finals was outstanding, earning him Finals MVP honors after he led the Knicks to victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.

Defensive Prowess: Known for his lock-down defense, Frazier was consistently named to the NBA All-Defensive Teams throughout his career, earning recognition as one of the best defenders in the league.

Signature Playing Style: Frazier was known for his smooth style of play, both offensively and defensively, earning him the nickname “Clyde” for his slick and stylish moves on the court.

Playing Style:

Walt Frazier was a dynamic point guard known for his versatility, smooth ball-handling, court vision, and elite defensive skills. His offensive game included the ability to score in a variety of ways, from mid-range jump shots to finishing at the basket, while his defensive tenacity made him one of the NBA’s top perimeter defenders. Frazier also had excellent leadership and was known for his ability to perform in clutch moments. His signature look, with his iconic furs and stylish personality, added to his larger-than-life presence both on and off the court.

Hall of Fame Induction (1987):

Frazier was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history. His leadership, skill set, and contributions to two NBA championships with the New York Knicks were celebrated with his enshrinement.

Other Honors and Legacy:

New York Knicks Ring of Honor

Frazier is one of the most iconic figures in Knicks history, with his number 10 retired by the team, marking his lasting legacy in New York.

NBA 50th Anniversary All-Time Team (1996)

Frazier was named to the NBA’s 50th Anniversary All-Time Team, a reflection of his excellence and impact on the game.

New York Knicks All-Time Team

He is a member of the New York Knicks All-Time Team, recognized for his leadership and iconic status within the franchise.

NBA’s Top 75 Players (2021)

Walt Frazier was included in the NBA’s Top 75 Players of All-Time, as part of the league’s celebration of its rich history.

Conclusion:

Walt “Clyde” Frazier is not only one of the most talented and successful point guards to ever play the game but also one of the most charismatic figures in NBA history. His leadership in the New York Knicks’ two NBA championships, along with his all-around ability as both a scorer and defender, earned him a place among basketball’s greats. His induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987 recognized his significant contributions to the game, and his legacy continues to inspire players today.