Sooner Legend Wayman Tisdale Dead at Age 44

Wayman Tisdale, one of the greatest college basketball players to ever play the game, has succumb to cancer at the age of 44.  Tisdale played only three seasons at Oklahoma (1983-85), but managed to be a first-team All-American in each season, and along with Patrick Ewing, was the last person to accomplish this feat. The only other players in college basketball history to earn All-American honors for three or more seasons are Oscar Robertson, Bill Walton, Lew Alcindor, Pete Maravich, Tom Gola, Jerry Lucas, David Thompson and Ralph Sampson. So Tisdale is in good company. He was elected into the National Collegiate Hall of Fame. Tisdale played 12 seasons in the NBA, averaging over 15 points per game in stints with the Phoenix Suns, Sacramento Kings and Indiana Pacers.

Tisdale was actually a marvelously talented jazz musician, as well as a basketball player. After his hoops career was over he released several jazz albums that did terrifically well on the charts. Tisdale will be remembered for his basketball skill, his musical talent and his positive demeanor. All who knew him have said he was a tremendous ambassador of the game. Rest in peace, Wayman Tisdale.

To get NCAA basketball tickets, go to StubHub.com.

Posted in General on May 15, 2009

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