Paul Arizin, often remembered by his nickname "Pitchin' Paul," was an influential figure in the early years of professional basketball. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Arizin's journey to the professional courts was anything but typical. He did not play high school basketball, but his talent was undeniable when he joined the team at Villanova University. During his college career, Arizin quickly became a standout player, leading the nation in scoring during his senior year and earning All-American honors.

In 1950, the Philadelphia Warriors selected Arizin with the first overall pick in the NBA Draft. His rookie season was a testament to his scoring ability, as he averaged 17.2 points per game. Arizin's unique jump shot, which he developed on his own, set him apart from many of his contemporaries who primarily relied on set shots. This innovation in shooting technique contributed to his scoring prowess and made him a difficult player to defend.

Arizin's career reached new heights in the 1951-52 season when he led the league in scoring with an average of 25.4 points per game. His performance earned him the NBA's scoring title and solidified his reputation as one of the league's premier scorers. However, his career was interrupted when he was called to serve in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. Arizin missed two full seasons, but his return to the NBA in 1954 was nothing short of remarkable.

Upon his return, Arizin picked up right where he left off, continuing to be a dominant force on the court. In the 1955-56 season, he played a crucial role in leading the Philadelphia Warriors to an NBA Championship. His scoring ability, combined with his leadership on the court, was instrumental in the Warriors' success. Arizin's performance in the Finals was outstanding, and he was a key player in securing the championship for his team.

Throughout his career, Arizin was selected to ten NBA All-Star Games, showcasing his consistent excellence and popularity among fans and peers alike. He was named to the All-NBA First Team three times, further highlighting his status as one of the league's elite players. Arizin's scoring ability was complemented by his strong defensive skills, making him a well-rounded player who could contribute in multiple facets of the game.

In 1962, Arizin decided to retire from the NBA, despite still being at the top of his game. He chose to continue playing basketball in the Eastern Professional Basketball League (EPBL) with the Camden Bullets, where he played for three more seasons. His decision to play in the EPBL allowed him to remain close to his family in Philadelphia, demonstrating his personal priorities beyond the professional realm.

Arizin's legacy in basketball is cemented by his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1978.

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