Walt Hazzard, American basketball player and coach (d. 2011)

Born Walter Raphael Hazzard Jr. on April 15, 1942, he would later embrace the name Mahdi Abdul-Rahman, becoming a revered figure in American basketball as both a dynamic professional player and a distinguished college coach. His life, marked by exceptional talent and dedication, spanned a period from 1942 to November 18, 2011, leaving an indelible legacy in the sport.

A Collegiate Star and Olympic Champion

Mahdi Abdul-Rahman's basketball journey began to captivate audiences during his collegiate years at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). As a standout guard, he played a pivotal role in the UCLA Bruins' historic 1964 season. Under the legendary guidance of Coach John Wooden, Hazzard led the Bruins to their first-ever National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men's basketball championship. This monumental victory was not merely a single triumph; it marked the very beginning of what would become one of college basketball's most dominant dynasties, establishing a standard of excellence that UCLA would uphold for years to come.

The year 1964 proved to be exceptionally golden for Hazzard. Beyond his collegiate triumph, he also proudly represented the United States on the international stage. As a key member of the U.S. national team, he helped secure a gold medal at the 1964 Summer Olympics held in Tokyo, Japan, solidifying his status as one of the nation's premier amateur basketball talents.

Forging an NBA Career

Transitioning from amateur phenom to professional athlete, Hazzard commenced his career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) with the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers, recognizing his immense local appeal and talent, selected him as a territorial pick in the 1964 NBA draft. This now-defunct rule allowed NBA teams to forgo their first-round pick to select a player from their immediate geographical area, provided they could demonstrate a strong claim to the player, often due to significant collegiate ties or local popularity. It was a testament to Hazzard's immense talent and local renown following his collegiate and Olympic successes.

Throughout his NBA tenure, Hazzard showcased his skills as a quick, scoring guard. His professional prowess was further recognized in 1968 when, as a member of the Seattle SuperSonics, he earned the coveted distinction of being named an NBA All-Star, a testament to his impactful contributions and individual excellence on the court. His career saw him play for several franchises, leaving his mark wherever he went.

Return to UCLA: Coaching Legacy

Following a distinguished playing career, Mahdi Abdul-Rahman, who had embraced his new name, returned to the familiar grounds of UCLA, this time stepping into a new leadership role as the head coach of the men's basketball team. His tenure as head coach spanned portions of the 1980s, offering him the unique opportunity to guide the program that had shaped his own early success. It was a full-circle moment for a player who had helped establish the Bruins' legacy, now tasked with nurturing the next generation of talent and upholding the high standards he once helped set as a player. His dedication to the sport continued, manifesting in his commitment to developing young athletes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What was Mahdi Abdul-Rahman's birth name?
He was born Walter Raphael Hazzard Jr.
When was he born and when did he pass away?
He was born on April 15, 1942, and passed away on November 18, 2011.
Which college team did he play for, and what was a key achievement?
He played for the UCLA Bruins and was a vital member of their first national championship team in 1964.
Did he win an Olympic medal?
Yes, he won a gold medal with the U.S. national team at the 1964 Summer Olympics.
Which NBA team drafted him?
The Los Angeles Lakers selected him as a territorial pick in the 1964 NBA draft.
Was he ever an NBA All-Star?
Yes, he was named an NBA All-Star in 1968 while playing for the Seattle SuperSonics.
Did he pursue a coaching career after playing?
Yes, he served as the head coach for the UCLA Bruins men's basketball team during the 1980s.
Why did Walter Hazzard Jr. change his name to Mahdi Abdul-Rahman?
He converted to Islam and adopted the name Mahdi Abdul-Rahman.