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#NYK70 | 1960: Knicks Name Willie Naulls First African-American Captain in a Major Pro Sport

In high school, he was named California Mr. Basketball. In college at UCLA, he was an All-American. After his pro career ended, Willie Naulls started his own ministry. A four-time NBA All-Star who averaged a double double (19.3 points, 10.7 rebounds per game) during his seven years with the Knicks, Naulls has always commanded respect and admiration. His standing led to a notable first: In 1960, his fourth year with the Knicks, he was named the first African-American athlete to captain a major professional sports team.

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