Chuck Cooper Drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1950 as the NBA’s First Black Draftee, Sparking a New Era in Pro Basketball

Chuck Cooper’s Draft Pick Changed the NBA Forever

Chuck Cooper’s selection in the 1950 NBA Draft marked a powerful turning point in sports. The Boston Celtics chose him with the 13th pick in the second round, making him the first Black player ever drafted by an NBA team.

At that moment, Cooper didn’t just join a team—he opened the door for generations of Black athletes in professional basketball. His entry signaled the beginning of a slow but steady shift toward racial inclusion in the league.

The 1950 Draft: A Historic Year for Black Athletes in Basketball

The 1950 NBA Draft was groundbreaking for several reasons. Not only did it feature Cooper, but two other Black players also entered the league soon after. The New York Knicks purchased Nat “Sweetwater” Clifton’s contract from the Harlem Globetrotters, making him the first Black player to sign an NBA contract.

Earl Lloyd, drafted by the Washington Capitals, became the first Black player to appear in an official NBA game due to a scheduling difference. Together, these three men laid the foundation for future stars.

Honoring the Courage of a True Trailblazer

Chuck Cooper did not just break into the league—he faced racism and harsh criticism with strength and dignity. Despite the challenges, he held his place on the Celtics and inspired many young athletes who came after him.

Jaylen Brown, current Celtics guard, recently said in a tribute video:

“Cooper’s journey made my path possible. His courage helped shape today’s NBA.”

NBA Plans Year-Long Celebration of Pioneers

The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) are now taking major steps to honor Cooper and his fellow pioneers. Starting this season, the league will celebrate their legacy during Black History Month and at special events.

The NBPA will also release a video series featuring current stars like Stephen Curry and Karl-Anthony Towns, who speak about how these pioneers changed their lives and the league forever.

Families Carry the Legacy Forward

Although Cooper passed away in 1984, his legacy continues through his son, Chuck Cooper III. Along with the families of Clifton and Lloyd, he will help represent their stories throughout the NBA’s upcoming celebrations.

Their hope is that every new player understands the deep roots of their opportunity. As Chuck Cooper III said:

“My father’s story should be a part of every NBA player’s knowledge. This is how it all began.”

Today, the NBA celebrates the 75th Anniversary of the historic 1950 NBA Draft, commemorating the season that broke the color barrier when the first Black players entered the NBA. #NBAPioneers75

75 years ago, three Pioneers Chuck Cooper, Nat "Sweetwater" Clifton, and Earl Lloyd… pic.twitter.com/3CuOxIGOM7

— NBA (@NBA) April 25, 2025