BOSTON - The National Basketball Association, in celebration of the inaugural NBA Pioneers Classic, honored Xavier legend Nat "Sweetwater" Clifton alongside other barrier-breaking stars of the league's early days.
In recognition of the 75th Anniversary of the desegregation of the NBA, and in acknowledgement of the first day of Black History Month, the league hosted family members of Clifton, Chuck Cooper, and Earl Lloyd
Before the game, which pitted the visiting Milwaukee Bucks against the Celtics, Boston all-star Jaylen Brown addressed the crowd. Video of Brown's remarks was posted on Instagram.
Xavier Athletic Director Patricia Kendrick was also on hand to participate in the ceremonies.
Clifton was the second Black player to sign with an NBA team. He joined the New York Knicks on May 24, 1950, just four days after Lloyd appeared for the Washington Capitals.
The Knicks benefitted immediately from Clifton's presence and made their first appearance in the NBA Finals during Clifton's rookie season.
Already well-known on the hardcourt after emerging as the Harlem Globetrotters' first breakout star, Clifton was 27 years old when he joined the NBA and averaged 10 points and 9 rebounds per game over an eight-year run in the Association.
Clifton earned an all-star nod in 1957.
