Bobby Wanzer, an American basketball player, left an indelible mark on the sport during his time with the Rochester Royals in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on June 4, 1921, in Brooklyn, New York, Wanzer's journey to professional basketball began after he served in the United States Marine Corps during World War II. Following his military service, he attended Seton Hall University, where he honed his skills on the court and caught the attention of professional scouts.

In 1948, Wanzer joined the Rochester Royals, a team that would later become the Sacramento Kings. His arrival coincided with the Royals' transition from the National Basketball League (NBL) to the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which eventually merged to form the NBA. Wanzer quickly established himself as a reliable guard, known for his exceptional shooting ability and defensive prowess.

Throughout his career, Wanzer was recognized for his consistent performance and leadership on the court. He was a five-time NBA All-Star, earning selections in 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, and 1956. His skills were instrumental in leading the Royals to their first and only NBA Championship in 1951. During the championship series against the New York Knicks, Wanzer's contributions were vital in securing the title for Rochester.

Wanzer's playing style was characterized by his accurate shooting and strategic playmaking. He was one of the first players in the NBA to achieve a free throw shooting percentage of over 90% in a season, a testament to his precision and focus. His ability to perform under pressure made him a valuable asset to the Royals throughout his career.

In addition to his on-court achievements, Wanzer also took on the role of player-coach for the Royals during the 1955-1956 season. This dual responsibility showcased his understanding of the game and his ability to lead and inspire his teammates. Although the team did not achieve significant success during his coaching tenure, Wanzer's influence was evident in the development of the players and the strategies employed by the team.

After retiring as a player in 1957, Wanzer continued to contribute to the sport by transitioning into a full-time coaching role. He served as the head coach for the Royals until 1959, further demonstrating his dedication to the team and the game of basketball. His coaching career extended beyond the NBA, as he later took on the role of head coach at St. John Fisher College in Rochester, New York, where he remained for over two decades.

Bobby Wanzer's legacy in basketball was cemented with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987.

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