Pete Maravich, a legendary American basketball player, revolutionized the game with his unique style and incredible skills. From his record-breaking college career to his successful tenure in the NBA, Maravich left a lasting impact on the sport. Known as “Pistol” due to his distinctive shooting technique, he captivated audiences with his flashy dribbling and precise passing. His talent and contributions to the game earned him a well-deserved place in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame at a young age.
Quick Facts
- Also Known As: Pistol Pete, Peter Press Maravich
- Died At Age: 40
- Family:
- Spouse/Ex-: Jackie Maravich (m. 1976–1988)
- Father: Press Maravich
- Mother: Helen
- Children: Josh Maravich
- Basketball Players
- American Men
- Died on: January 5, 1988
- Place of Death: Pasadena, California, United States
- U.S. State: Pennsylvania
- Ancestry: Serbian American
- Cause of Death: Heart Failure
- More Facts
- Education: Louisiana State University
Childhood & Early Life
Pete Maravich was born in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania to Petar “Press” Maravich. His father, a former professional player-turned coach, taught him basketball skills from a young age. Maravich showed a detailed understanding of the game and spent hours perfecting his skills.
High School and College
Maravich started playing for the varsity ball at Daniel High School before reaching the required age. He then moved to Raleigh, North Carolina and attended Needham B. Broughton High School. It was during this time that his unique shooting style earned him the nickname “Pistol” Pete Maravich.
After graduating high school, Maravich enrolled at Louisiana State University (LSU), where his father served as the varsity coach. In his freshman year, he played for the LSU freshman team and had an impressive performance. Throughout his collegiate career, Maravich set numerous records and averaged an incredible 44.2 points per game.
Professional Career
Maravich was selected by the Atlanta Hawks in the first round of the NBA draft in 1970. Despite already having top-notch scorers on the team, Maravich’s radical playing style made him stand out. He had a successful first season with the Hawks, averaging 23.2 points per game.
Over the next few seasons, Maravich’s personal records remained strong, but the team’s performance fluctuated. In the 1973-74 season, Maravich averaged 27.7 points per game, second only to Bob McAdoo. In 1974, he was drafted by the New Orleans Jazz, but the team struggled and had a poor record.
Maravich battled injuries throughout his career, but he continued to make significant contributions to his teams. He retired from the game in 1980 due to worsening knee injuries.
Awards & Achievements
Maravich set numerous NBA records during his career, including scoring a career-high 68 points in a single game. He also achieved remarkable success in college, with the highest scoring average of 44.5 and a total of 3,667 points.
He received several NBA awards, including being named to the NBA All-Rookie Team, All-NBA First Team (twice), All-NBA Second Team (twice), and being a five-time NBA All-Star. Maravich was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987 and was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996.
Personal Life & Legacy
Maravich was married to Jackie and had two children, Jaeson and Josh. Tragically, he passed away on January 5, 1988, due to heart failure while playing in a pickup basketball game. He was buried in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Trivia
Maravich earned the nickname “Pistol” due to his unique shooting style, which resembled him holding a revolver.