Report From Philadelphia 76ers

The NBA lost one of the most dynamic players and personalities in its history when Darryl “Chocolate Thunder” Dawkins passed away at the age of 58 on Aug. 27.

Dawkins was a pioneer in many ways. The first player drafted directly out of high school (fifth overall in 1975), his 6’11” frame and elite athleticism made him one of the most physically imposing big men of his era; he was known for his rim-rattling (and one two occasions rim-shattering) dunks and his propensity for the flamboyant.

Given the popular nickname “Chocolate Thunder” by recording artist Stevie Wonder, Dawkins also went by the self-created names Dr. Dunkenstein and Sir Slam. He even christened his dunks with names such as Rim Wrecker, Go-Rilla, Look Out Below, In-Your-Face Disgrace, Cover Your Head, Yo-Mama, and Spine-Chiller Supreme.

But the Orlando native wasn’t just known for his high-flying play and poetic nature, he was also an important contributor during one of the most successful stretches in Sixers history. He played for Philadelphia from 1975 to 1982, helping the team reach the NBA Finals three times during that span. Dawkins joined the New Jersey Nets in 1982 and played there until being dealt to the Utah Jazz in October of 1987. He later was traded to the Pistons, with whom he spent two seasons.

Dawkins averaged 12.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks for his career and finished top-five in field-goal percentage on five separate occasions as a pro. From 1989 to 2000, he played professionally in Italy and also stateside with the Continental Basketball Association, the International Basketball Association, and with the Harlem Globetrotters.

In recent years, Dawkins frequently attended Sixers home games. Every time, he’d roam the concourses, jovially greeting fans with a warm smile and booming laugh while wearing one of his many brightly colored suits. His presence had a way of lighting up any room, and it is something that his family and friends as well as those who only knew him through those brief moments will miss dearly.

Image by Philadelphia 76ers.