The Philadelphia 76ers are set to honor the recently deceased Dolph Schayes by retiring his number 4 uniform on Saturday, January 23rd. Schayes was one of the original NBA stars, and really help set the tone for the leagues legitimacy.
Nerlens Noel will continue to wear the number 4 on the back of his jersey, however. Noel said:
“I take the responsibility of wearing the Sixers uniform very seriously and will continue representing the organization, and now the legacy of Mr. Schayes, to the best of my ability.”
Let’s not forget, this isn’t about Noel at all. No, it’s about remembering the great career and life of the late Dolph Schayes. Schayes passed away from cancer in December, at the ripe age of 87 years old.
Schayes played in the NBA’s first season back in 1949, and played all of his 15 years in the association with the Sixers (They were the Syracuse Nationals at the time). Schayes made 12 All-Star teams and helped bring home the championship in 1955. He’s third all time in scoring. Schayes is the 9th player to ever have their uniform retired by the Sixers.
Before his passing, Schayes was told about the Sixers plans. He was ever so excited to have his uniform honored by the organization he played so many years for.
Rest in peace, Dolph Schayes (1928-2015).
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