Sports Part X
Moses Malone, born on March 23, 1955, in Petersburg, Virginia, was one of the most dominant centers in basketball history. Known for his relentless rebounding, scoring efficiency, and physical toughness, Malone was a three-time NBA MVP and led the Philadelphia 76ers to an NBA championship in 1983 with one of the greatest Finals performances ever.
Early Career – Jumping from High School to the Pros
🔥 First player in basketball history to go straight from high school to professional basketball when he joined the ABA’s Utah Stars in 1974.
🔥 Averaged 18.8 points and 14.6 rebounds per game as a rookie at just 19 years old.
After the ABA-NBA merger, Malone’s dominance carried over to the NBA, where he became one of the best rebounders and scorers of his era.
NBA Career – Dominating the Paint
Houston Rockets (1976–1982) – Becoming a Superstar
🔥 Won his first NBA MVP award in 1979, averaging 24.8 PPG and 17.6 RPG.
🔥 Led Houston to the 1981 NBA Finals, despite a weaker supporting cast.
🔥 Won his second MVP award in 1982 after leading the league in rebounding.
Malone’s dominance on the boards and unstoppable scoring in the paint made him the most sought-after player in the league.
Philadelphia 76ers (1982–1986) – Championship Glory
🔥 Traded to the 76ers in 1982 and instantly turned them into a championship team.
🔥 Won his third NBA MVP award in 1983.
🏆 Led the 76ers to the 1983 NBA Championship, sweeping the Lakers in the Finals.
🔥 Averaged 25.8 PPG and 18 RPG in the playoffs.
🔥 Famously predicted “Fo’, Fo’, Fo’” (a perfect playoff sweep) – 76ers nearly delivered, going 12-1.
🔥 Won NBA Finals MVP in 1983 for his dominant play.
Final Years & Career Achievements
Malone played for multiple teams after leaving the 76ers, including the Washington Bullets, Atlanta Hawks, Milwaukee Bucks, and San Antonio Spurs, still producing high-level numbers well into his late 30s.
🏆 3× NBA MVP (1979, 1982, 1983)
🏆 1× NBA Champion (1983)
🏆 1× NBA Finals MVP (1983)
🏆 12× NBA All-Star
🏆 8× NBA Rebounding Leader
🔥 Finished his career with 27,409 points and 16,212 rebounds, ranking among the all-time greats.
Playing Style and Legacy
✅ One of the greatest rebounders ever – Known for grabbing his own missed shots and finishing strong.
✅ A physical and relentless inside presence – Could dominate both ends of the floor.
✅ A winner and competitor – Played with incredible toughness and endurance.
✅ Paved the way for high school-to-pros players – Inspired future stars like Kevin Garnett and Kobe Bryant.
Malone’s impact on rebounding and post play influenced future big men like Shaquille O’Neal and Dwight Howard.
Legacy
🔥 One of the greatest centers in NBA history
🔥 A three-time MVP, proving his dominance in multiple eras
🔥 A key figure in the 76ers’ championship success
🔥 A trailblazer for high school players entering professional basketball
Moses Malone wasn’t flashy—he was pure dominance. His work ethic, toughness, and rebounding mastery make him one of the most respected big men of all time. 🏀💪
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