Twyman's professional career began with the Royals, who later became the Cincinnati Royals. Standing at 6 feet 6 inches, he played as a forward and quickly established himself as a reliable scorer. In the 1959-60 season, Twyman became one of the first players in NBA history to average over 30 points per game, finishing the season with an impressive 31.2 points per game. This achievement placed him among the league's elite scorers and earned him a spot in the NBA All-Star Game.
Throughout his career, Twyman was known for his offensive skills, particularly his shooting ability. He was selected to the All-Star team six times, reflecting his status as one of the top players of his era. Twyman's scoring ability was complemented by his work ethic and professionalism, traits that earned him respect from teammates and opponents alike.
One of the most enduring aspects of Twyman's career was his friendship with teammate Maurice Stokes. In 1958, Stokes suffered a tragic head injury that left him paralyzed. Twyman became Stokes' legal guardian and advocate, helping to raise funds for his medical care and ensuring his well-being. This act of kindness and loyalty is often highlighted as a testament to Twyman's character.
Twyman's career with the Royals spanned 11 seasons, during which he consistently performed at a high level. He retired in 1966 with career averages of 19.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. His contributions to the game were recognized in 1983 when he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
After retiring from basketball, Twyman pursued a successful career in business and broadcasting.
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