Dolph Schayes: The Trailblazing NBA Star of the Syracuse Nationals

Dolph Schayes was one of the first superstars of the NBA and a seminal figure for the Syracuse Nationals franchise. His versatility made him a pioneer at the power forward position.

Early Life and High School

Adolph Schayes was born in 1928 in New York City and grew up in the Bronx. At DeWitt Clinton High School, he played basketball and excelled as an All-City selection from 1944-1946. Schayes led DeWitt Clinton to multiple Public School Athletic League championships.

College Success at NYU

Subsequently, Schayes attended New York University from 1946-1948 where he played basketball under legendary coach Howard Cann. He was an All-American in both his varsity seasons, leading NYU to the NIT finals in 1947. Schayes averaged over 16 points per game during his college career.

NBA Career with the Syracuse Nationals

The Syracuse Nationals selected Schayes with the 4th overall pick in the 1948 BAA draft. He spent his entire 15-year career with the franchise, even after its move to Philadelphia in 1963.

Schayes became a star for the Nats, making 12 consecutive All-Star teams from 1951 to 1962. He was named NBA MVP for the 1955-56 season. Schayes won a championship with Syracuse in 1955.

With his perimeter shooting and passing abilities at 6’7″, Schayes pioneered the power forward position. He led the league in rebounding three times despite his relatively small size. Schayes averaged over 18 points and 12 rebounds per game for his career.

Sports/ print scan. *no location listed. print date of 12/19/1955. Adolph “Dolph” Schayes with the Syracuse Nationals. Handout photo from 1952-53.

Post-Playing Legacy

Following retirement in 1964, Schayes continued as the 76ers GM through 1966. He briefly coached Philadelphia in the 1966-67 season as well. Schayes entered the Hall of Fame in 1973. His #4 jersey was retired by the 76ers franchise.

In 1996, Schayes was named as one of the NBA’s 50 Greatest Players of all time. He passed away in 2015 at age 87. Schayes remains one of the most influential all-around players of the NBA’s early days.

2023 Update on Legacy

In 2023, Dolph Schayes’ legacy lives on through the Dolph Schayes Award, given annually to the NBA’s top college senior. His son Danny Schayes also enjoyed an 18-year NBA career.

Syracuse University, Schayes’ college team, named its basketball court at the Carrier Dome after him in 2022. Over 70 years since his debut, Dolph Schayes remains legendary for his skill, tenacity, and trailblazing versatility as a big man.