Frank Card
Frank Card | |
|---|---|
| Born | December 28, 1944 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Died | April 14, 2021 (aged 76) |
| Occupation | Professional basketball player |
| Years active | 1966–1974 (basketball) |
| Known for | Playing in the American Basketball Association (ABA) |
Frank Howard Card (December 28, 1944 – April 14, 2021) was a professional basketball athlete from the United States who played five seasons in the American Basketball Association (ABA).
Hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Card honed his basketball talents at South Carolina State University during his college years.
In the 1967 NBA draft, the Philadelphia 76ers selected him in the 7th round as the 77th overall pick.
Throughout his ABA career, Card participated in 306 games representing multiple teams: Minnesota Pipers (1968–69), Washington Caps (1969–70), Virginia Squires (1970–71), Carolina Cougars (1970–71), and Denver Rockets (1971–73).
Additionally, he competed with the Allentown Jets within the Eastern Professional Basketball League (EPBL)/Eastern Basketball Association (EBA) between 1966 and 1968, and again from 1972 to 1974, securing an EPBL championship with the Jets in 1968.
Following his basketball career, Card dedicated nearly a quarter-century to working at the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority. He passed away on April 14, 2021.
Early life and education
Born on December 28, 1944, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Frank Howard Card completed his secondary education at West Philadelphia High School. He subsequently received a scholarship to attend South Carolina State University, where he further cultivated his basketball abilities.
Work and career
From April 1965 until April 1968, Card served in the United States Army. During this time, he played in the Baker League and earned the nickname “Watusi” due to his impressive leaping skills. The Philadelphia 76ers drafted him in the seventh round of the 1967 NBA draft. His professional basketball tenure included stints with teams such as the Minnesota Pipers, Washington Caps, Virginia Squires, Carolina Cougars, and Denver Rockets. Card also extended his playing career overseas in Europe. After retiring from professional sports, he was employed by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority (SEPTA) for close to twenty-five years.
Death and legacy
Remembered for his warm smile and vibrant personality, Card acted as a mentor to numerous younger colleagues at SEPTA, who affectionately referred to him as “Mr. Frank.” He placed great importance on respect and took pride in being a positive influence and father figure to his two stepsons. In recognition of his contributions to professional basketball, Card was celebrated during the ABA's 50th Anniversary events and was an active supporter of the Dropping Dimes Foundation.