24
Oct
4 min read
NBA's Greatest Players in History: Billy Cunningham
Kangaroo Kid's leap from All-Star to championship coach
- Four-time NBA All-Star and ABA MVP
- NBA champion as both player (1967) and coach (1983)
- Inducted into Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1986
- Member of the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team
Billy Cunningham's versatile career as player and coach left an indelible mark on the NBA, embodying efficiency and success in multiple roles.
Overview
Billy Cunningham, nicknamed the "Kangaroo Kid" for his exceptional leaping ability, was a pivotal figure in Philadelphia 76ers history. His career trajectory showcased remarkable efficiency, transitioning seamlessly from star player to championship-winning coach. Cunningham's impact on the game extended beyond his playing days, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in NBA history.
Career snapshot
Cunningham's NBA journey began when the Philadelphia 76ers selected him seventh overall in the 1965 draft. He quickly proved his worth, earning All-Rookie honours and helping the team to an NBA championship in just his second season. Cunningham's playing style was characterised by unorthodox moves, creative scoring, and relentless rebounding despite his relatively modest 6-foot-6 frame.
As his career progressed, Cunningham's role expanded from sixth man to full-time starter. He became a four-time All-Star and consistently averaged over 20 points and 10 rebounds per game during his prime years. His versatility and efficiency on the court made him an invaluable asset to the 76ers.
Playing style
Cunningham's unique playing style set him apart from his contemporaries. He wasn't a classic jump shooter, instead relying on a diverse arsenal of finger rolls, double-pumps, and ball fakes to score. His ability to outmanoeuvre defenders and finish at the rim earned him the "Kangaroo Kid" moniker.
Defensively, Cunningham's quickness and anticipation made him a formidable presence. He led the ABA in steals during his MVP season, showcasing his all-around game. His rebounding prowess, especially for a player of his size, was particularly noteworthy, consistently averaging double-digit rebounds for six consecutive seasons.
Why Billy Cunningham is on our list
Cunningham's inclusion on the list of most dominant NBA players is justified by his remarkable efficiency and impact in multiple facets of the game. As a player, he was a key contributor to the 76ers' 1967 championship team, which at the time posted the best regular-season record in NBA history (68-13).
His adaptability was evident when he transitioned to the ABA, winning the league's MVP award in his first season with the Carolina Cougars. This accomplishment underscored his ability to excel in different competitive environments.
Perhaps most impressively, Cunningham's dominance extended beyond his playing career. As a coach, he led the 76ers to three NBA Finals appearances, including the 1983 championship. His rapid ascent to coaching success—becoming the fastest to reach both 200 and 400 victories at the time — demonstrates his exceptional basketball IQ and leadership abilities.
Five Fast Facts
- Cunningham was the first University of North Carolina player inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
- He averaged a double-double (21.2 points, 10.4 rebounds) over his nine NBA seasons
- Cunningham coached the 76ers to a then-record 65 wins in the 1980-81 season
- He was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996
- Cunningham's jersey number 32 was retired by the Philadelphia 76ers
Career Highlights Timeline
1965: Drafted 7th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers, named to All-Rookie First Team
1967: Wins NBA championship with the 76ers
1969: Earns first NBA All-Star selection
1972: Jumps to ABA, signing with the Carolina Cougars
1973: Wins ABA MVP award
1974: Returns to the NBA and the 76ers
1977: Retires as a player and becomes assistant coach for the 76ers
1979: Takes over as head coach of the 76ers
1983: Leads 76ers to NBA championship as head coach
1986: Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
Billy Cunningham's efficiency and success as both player and coach make him one of the most dominant figures in NBA history. His ability to excel in multiple roles and adapt to changing landscapes of the game showcases a basketball mind that transcended eras. From his early days as the "Kangaroo Kid" to his championship-winning coaching tenure, Cunningham's impact on the sport remains a testament to his greatness.
