Willie Taylor (basketball)
Willie J. Taylor | |
|---|---|
| Occupation(s) | Basketball player, Reverend |
| Years active | 1965–1969 (basketball) |
| Known for | Collegiate basketball for LeMoyne–Owen Magicians; 28th pick in 1969 NBA draft by Philadelphia 76ers |
Willie J. Taylor is a former American basketball athlete. He competed collegiately for the LeMoyne–Owen Magicians and was chosen as the 28th pick overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1969 NBA draft.
Playing career
Taylor attended Henry High School located in Byhalia, Mississippi. Serving as a center, he played for the LeMoyne–Owen Magicians between 1965 and 1969, posting averages of 18 points and 18 rebounds per game during his final collegiate season.
Following an impressive showing at the 1969 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Tournament—where he recorded 25 points and 22 rebounds—Taylor was selected 28th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers. Jack Ramsay, then both coach and general manager of the 76ers, regarded him as possibly the "biggest sleeper in the draft" and nearly picked him in the first round. On June 29, 1969, Taylor signed a one-year deal with Philadelphia but participated minimally in two preseason games before being released on September 28, 1969, during roster reductions prior to the 1969–70 NBA season.
Personal life
After his basketball career, Taylor pursued a path as a reverend. He and his wife Cassie shared 44 years of marriage and had three children together; Cassie passed away in 2014.