NBA
The NBA isn’t just a sport, it’s a pathway to fame and limelight, but this fame is temporary. When the spark of the player runs out this fame starts to fade too.
Everyone is not a legend because there is only one Michael Jordan and only one Magic Johnson. Others are just part of the NBA history, despite their contributions and domination of the game, certain stars simply disappear from everyone’s mind. George Gervin and Alex English, these players were once stars. People cheered their each and every move. They were chased for autographs and handshakes, but now they are nowhere to be found around the spotlight.
Some players have managed to remain in the spotlight by broadcasting in the booth and appreciating new talents. Some have become coaches. Some do big brand endorsements in public events and television media. Of course, it is nothing compared to the fame they had during their professional career. Apart from these handful of ex-players, comes the category of forgotten stars who faced massive financial crisis. Some took up regular jobs and started living a common man’s life with no fame at all.
Here are the 15 NBA players who disappeared from the spotlight after their careers –
George "Iceman" Gervin ABA & NBA Super Star
George Gervin started his professional career with Virginia Squires and then moved on to San Antonio Spurs both in ABA. He again showed-off his talents in NBA when the Spurs joined the league in 1976-77.
Gervin averaged at least 14 points per game in all 14 of his ABA and NBA seasons and went on to lead the NBA in scoring average three years in a row from 1978 to 1980 with a high of 33.1 points per game in 1979-1980. Gervin scored 40 or more points 68 times in the regular season, finishing with an NBA career average of 26.2 points per game. He had his number 44 jersey retired by the Spurs and is a member of the Hall of fame.
After his retirement, Gervin set up some non-profit youth centers for troubles kids where schooling is provided to those who wish to pursue their education.
