Chuck Cooper (00:45)

SF/PF - 6'5", 210 lb

Born 9/29/26 in Pittsburgh, PA (birth name: Charles Henry Cooper)

Grew up in a segregated Pittsburgh area; attended Westinghouse HS

Enrolled at WV State College, a HBCU where he stayed only one semester

Was drafted by the US Navy to serve during World War II

After his tour of duty he went back home to Pittsburgh & attended Duquesne University

4 year starter scoring a school record 990 points; Led his team to 2 NIT tourneys

Was the 1st Black player to play a college game south of the Mason-Dixon line

In the 1950 Draft he became the 1st Black player drafted by BOS (2nd round, 13th overall)

Also drafted: teammate Bob Cousy (4th), Bill Sharman (17th), Earl Lloyd (101st)

Made his NBA debut on 11/1/50, one day after Lloyd

Played for 4 s ...