On March 25, 1970 Bob Lanier Scores
1970: Five days ago, Bob Lanier, a 6-foot-11 All-American center for St. Bonaventure, was the first player picked in the NBA draft, two spots ahead of Pistol Pete Maravich and three in front of Dave Cowens. Today he signs with the Detroit Pistons for the largest contract ever for a pro athlete — reportedly $1.5 million for five years.
Lanier had spurned a reported $2-million-plus offer from the rival New York Nets in the ABA.
“It’s great to be in the NBA,” Lanier says at his press conference in Buffalo. “I’ve had a lot of guidance from Willis Reed and I feel there’s more prestige and competition in the NBA.”
Lanier will have a distinguished 14-year career with the Pistons (9-plus seasons) and Bucks, averaging 20.1 points and 10.1 rebounds on his way to the Hall of Fame.
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