Longie Powell facts for kids
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Born | June 13, 1917 Mississippi |
| Nationality | American |
| Died | July 2, 1980 (aged 63) Gary, Indiana |
| High school | Friedrich Froebel (Gary, Indiana) |
| Listed height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Career information | |
| Pro career | 1942–1949 |
| Career history | |
| 1942–1943 | Harlem Globetrotters |
| 1946–1947 | New York Renaissance |
| 1947–1948 | Chicago Colored Collegians |
| 1949 | Dayton Rens |
Robert T. "Longie" Powell was an American professional basketball player. He was born on June 13, 1917, in Mississippi. Longie was known for playing as a forward and center. He played for several important teams in the 1940s. These included the famous Harlem Globetrotters and the New York Renaissance. He also played in the National Basketball League for the Dayton Rens.
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Longie Powell's Basketball Journey
Longie Powell had an exciting career in professional basketball. He played during a time when basketball was growing very popular. He was a talented player who could play both forward and center. These positions are key roles on a basketball team.
Early Life and High School
Longie Powell was born in Mississippi. He later moved to Gary, Indiana. There, he attended Friedrich Froebel High School. This is where he likely developed his basketball skills. Many great players start their journey in high school.
Playing for Famous Teams
Longie Powell played for some of the most well-known basketball teams of his era. His career started in 1942.
The Harlem Globetrotters
From 1942 to 1943, Longie played for the Harlem Globetrotters. This team is famous for combining amazing basketball skills with entertainment. They traveled all over the world. The Globetrotters helped make basketball popular everywhere.
The New York Renaissance
After a break, Longie returned to basketball in 1946. He joined the New York Renaissance, also known as the "Rens." The Rens were one of the best all-Black professional basketball teams. They were known for their fast-paced and skilled style of play. Longie played with them from 1946 to 1947.
Chicago Colored Collegians
In 1947 and 1948, Longie played for the Chicago Colored Collegians. This team was another important part of the basketball scene at the time.
The Dayton Rens
In 1949, Longie Powell played for the Dayton Rens. This team was part of the National Basketball League (NBL). The NBL was one of the top professional basketball leagues. It later merged with another league to form the NBA. During his time with the Dayton Rens, Longie averaged 5.0 points per game. This shows he was a valuable scorer for his team.
Longie Powell's Legacy
Longie Powell's career ended in 1949. He passed away on July 2, 1980, in Gary, Indiana. He was 63 years old. Longie Powell was an important part of basketball history. He played during a time of change and growth for the sport. His contributions helped shape the game we know today.
