Len Bias facts for kids
Bias after being selected in the 1986 NBA draft
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| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Born | November 18, 1963 Landover, Maryland, U.S. |
| Died | June 19, 1986 (aged 22) Riverdale, Maryland, U.S. |
| High school | Northwestern (Hyattsville, Maryland) |
| Listed height | 6 ft 8 in (2.03 m) |
| Listed weight | 210 lb (95 kg) |
| Career information | |
| College | Maryland (1982–1986) |
| NBA Draft | 1986 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall |
| Selected by the Boston Celtics | |
| Career highlights and awards | |
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Leonard Kevin Bias (born November 18, 1963 – died June 19, 1986) was an American college basketball star. He played for the University of Maryland for four years. During his time there, he became a top player, earning the title of first-team All-American. Just two days after being chosen by the Boston Celtics in the 1986 NBA draft, Bias sadly passed away. His death was caused by a sudden heart problem called cardiac arrhythmia. In 2021, he was honored by being added to the College Basketball Hall of Fame.
Early Life and School
Len Bias was born and grew up in Prince George’s County, Maryland. This area is just outside of Washington, D.C.. He was one of four children. His parents were James Bias Jr. and Dr. Lonise Bias. He had a sister named Michelle and two brothers, Eric and James III. James III was often called "Jay."
Bias went to Northwestern High School in Hyattsville, Maryland. He graduated from there before going to college.
College Basketball Career
After high school, Bias went to the University of Maryland. When he first started as a freshman, people thought he was a bit rough. However, he quickly improved his skills. He soon became an amazing All-American player.
In his junior year, Bias was the best scorer in the Atlantic Coast Conference. He was also named the ACC's Player of the Year. His senior year was very exciting. He played a great game against top-ranked North Carolina. In that game, he scored 35 points. He scored 7 points in the last three minutes of regular play. He also scored 4 points in overtime, helping his team win. At the end of that year, he won his second ACC Player of the Year award. He was also chosen for two All-America teams.
Bias really impressed basketball fans. He had an amazing ability to jump high. He was also very strong and could create plays easily. By his senior year, many scouts from National Basketball Association teams thought he was the best forward in his draft class. One scout, Ed Badger, even compared him to Michael Jordan. He called Bias an "explosive and exciting kind of player."
See also
- List of basketball players who died during their careers
