In the world of basketball, there have been many legendary players who have captured the hearts of fans all over the globe. From Michael Jordan to LeBron James, these players have become iconic figures in the sport. However, there is one player who may not be as well-known but deserves recognition for his incredible skills and impact on the game – Billy Ray Bates.
Long before the current “Superman beef” between Dwight Howard and Shaquille O’Neal, there was already a Black Superman in the basketball world. Billy Ray Bates, also known as “Billy the Kid”, may not have had a long NBA career but his time in the Philippines league was nothing short of spectacular. With just 98 games in the NBA, Bates left a lasting impression on fans with his energetic style of play and jaw-dropping dunks.
However, despite his short stint in the NBA, Bates’ name was not widely known until recently. Last night, the conversation surrounding him resurfaced after a blunder made by Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal on the popular sports show “Inside the NBA”. The hosts mistakenly referred to Bates as “Billy Ray Williams” and dismissed his impact on the game. This sparked a wave of backlash from fans and basketball enthusiasts, demanding that Bates be given the recognition he deserves.
Billy Ray Bates was born in Kosciusko, Mississippi in 1956. He attended Kentucky State University and was drafted in the third round of the 1978 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets. However, Bates’ NBA career did not take off as expected and he was eventually released by the Rockets. But that did not stop him from pursuing his passion for the game.
In 1982, Bates found himself in the Philippines, playing for the Crispa Redmanizers in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). It was here that he truly made a name for himself and became a fan favorite. His high-flying dunks and electrifying style of play earned him the nickname “Billy the Kid”, and he quickly became a household name in the Philippines.
Bates’ impact on the PBA was undeniable. He led the league in scoring for two consecutive seasons and won the PBA Best Import Award in 1983. He also helped the Crispa Redmanizers win the PBA Championship in 1983, cementing his place as one of the best imports to ever play in the Philippines.
Despite his success in the PBA, Bates’ NBA career never really took off. He had brief stints with the Portland Trail Blazers and the Los Angeles Lakers but was eventually released due to off-court issues. However, his legacy in the Philippines continued to grow, and he even had a documentary made about his life and career in the country.
After years of being overlooked and forgotten, it is time for the basketball world to give Billy Ray Bates the recognition he deserves. His impact on the game, especially in the Philippines, cannot be denied. He may not have had a long NBA career, but his time in the PBA was nothing short of legendary.
Last night, “Inside the NBA” corrected their mistake and acknowledged Bates as “Billy Ray Bates” instead of “Billy Ray Williams”. This may seem like a small gesture, but it means a lot to fans who have been waiting for Bates to be given the recognition he deserves.
In conclusion, Billy Ray Bates may not be a household name like Michael Jordan or LeBron James, but his impact on the game of basketball is undeniable. His electrifying style of play and high-flying dunks made him a crowd favorite in the Philippines, and his legacy continues to live on today. It’s time for the basketball world to remember and celebrate the Black Superman – Billy Ray Bates.
