Bob Lanier, one of the most feared power forwards of his age, with a devastating left-hand hook and a commanding presence on the inside. Opposing centers had to keep a constant eye on Lanier because he possessed an equally terrific outside game.
He was a rare breed of player because of his ability to be a force on the court from both the inside and the outside. Lanier led St. Bonaventure University to the NCAA Final Four in 1970 thanks to his talent and his unwavering will to win (27.6 RPG). Lanier still maintained the school scoring and rebounding records (15.7 RPG).
During his 14-year NBA career, he was a model of consistency, averaging double figures in points and rebounds for both the Detroit Pistons and the Milwaukee Bucks. At the 1974 NBA All-Star Game, Lanier received MVP honors for his 24-point, 10-rebound effort, which earned him All-Rookie team accolades in 1971.