Darryl Dawkins
Basketball player, Chocolate Thunder

Born
January 11th, 1957
68 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2015
9 years ago — 58 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
An American basketball player and coach, gained recognition during the 1970s and 1980s. Played as a center and power forward, primarily for the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Jersey Nets in the NBA. Known for his powerful dunks and flamboyant personality, earned the nickname 'Chocolate Thunder.' Innovated the game with his expressive approach to dunking, including shattering backboards, which led to the NBA adopting new rules regarding backboard breakage. Transitioned into coaching after his playing career, mentoring young athletes and contributing to basketball at various levels.
Played for the Philadelphia 76ers
Popularized the term 'dunk' in basketball
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