Lloyd Bernard Free, better known as World B. Free, was a professional basketball player whose career spanned over a decade in the NBA. Known for his scoring prowess and flamboyant style, Free became a fan favorite and an offensive powerhouse during his time on the court. Born on December 9, 1953, in Atlanta, Georgia, Free grew up in Brooklyn, New York, where he honed his basketball skills on the playgrounds, earning the nickname "World" for his 360-degree dunks and all-around game.
Free played college basketball at Guilford College in North Carolina, where he helped lead the team to an NAIA national championship in 1973. His impressive college performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, and he was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers in the second round of the 1975 NBA Draft. Free's entry into the NBA marked the beginning of a career characterized by high-scoring games and a distinctive playing style.
In Philadelphia, Free quickly established himself as a dynamic scorer. His ability to shoot from long range and drive to the basket made him a difficult player to defend. During the 1978-79 season, Free averaged 15.7 points per game, showcasing his offensive capabilities. However, it was after being traded to the San Diego Clippers in 1978 that Free truly flourished as a scorer. In the 1979-80 season, he averaged 30.2 points per game, finishing second in the league in scoring behind George Gervin. This scoring feat earned him a spot on the All-NBA Second Team.
Free's tenure with the Clippers solidified his reputation as one of the league's top scorers. He continued to put up impressive numbers, averaging over 20 points per game in multiple seasons. His scoring ability was complemented by his charismatic personality and unique fashion sense, which included colorful headbands and knee-high socks. These traits endeared him to fans and made him a recognizable figure in the league.
In 1982, Free was traded to the Golden State Warriors, where he continued to be a prolific scorer. He averaged 23.4 points per game during his first season with the Warriors, maintaining his status as one of the league's elite offensive players. Free's ability to score from anywhere on the court and his fearless approach to the game made him a valuable asset to any team he played for.
After his stint with the Warriors, Free joined the Cleveland Cavaliers in 1983. He played a crucial role in revitalizing the team, leading them in scoring and helping them reach the playoffs in the 1984-85 season. Free's leadership and scoring ability were instrumental in the Cavaliers' success during this period. He remained with the Cavaliers until 1986, continuing to be a consistent scoring threat.
Free's later years in the NBA saw him play for the Houston Rockets and a brief return to the Philadelphia 76ers. Although his scoring numbers declined as he aged, Free's influence on the game and his ability to entertain fans remained evident. He retired from professional basketball in 1988, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most exciting and prolific scorers of his era.
Throughout his career, World B. Free was known for his scoring ability, flamboyant style, and charismatic personality.
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