1 in the history of National basketball Association ever player Earl Lloyd passed away in the 87th year of life. In the USA this player compare with the achievements of Martin Luther king and Oprah Winfrey.

According to the official website of the NBA, Earl Lloyd, who in season 1950/51 the first African American who played in the match of the NBA, has died at the age of 86. Lloyd was selected by the Washington Capitals" under common 100-m-room on the draft-1950, and October 31, 1950 debuted in NBA in the match against Rochester Royals". In the same season for the floors came out and 2 other black debutant - Clifton and Chuck Cooper.

Just NBA forward spent 10 years as a player. Then he 1 time became a favorite of the Association together with the club "Syracuse Isnlt" (now "Philadelphia Sixers") in 1955. In the League Lloyd spent 560 matches, gaining about 8.4 points and making 6,4 selection. Season 1951/52 Earl missed due to military service of the United States.

In 1971-1972 Lloyd was appointed the main coach of "Detroit pistons", which played from 1952 to 1958, becoming one of the first African Americans who led the NBA. In 2003, he was integrated into the basketball Hall of fame named James Naismith for significant contribution to the development of this sport.

Recall that on February 18 on the 53rd year of life lost another famous basketball player Jerome Kersey, favorite NBA 1999 as part of the "San Antonio spurs". Quercy was selected by the club "Portland trail Blazers" in the 2nd round draft pick in 1984. He played 11 years in the USA and became a favorite of the local public. He was a starting player for the era of Clyde Drexler and Terry porter in the team.

In 1987, during all Star weekend where he took 2nd place in the contest dunk, losing only to Michael Jordan. Later Jerome Kersey played in the "Golden state of Warriors", "Los Angeles Lakers", "Seattle Supersonics", "San Antonio spurs", "Milwaukee Bucks". He finished his playing career in 2001.
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