Deaths on January 9

Roy Tarpley, American basketball player (b. 1964)

Roy James Tarpley, born on November 28, 1964, and passing away on January 9, 2015, at the age of 50, was a highly talented American professional basketball player whose career was marked by both remarkable on-court achievements and significant off-court struggles. Known for his imposing presence as a power forward and center, Tarpley made a notable impact during his time in the National Basketball Association (NBA) before his career was tragically cut short by persistent substance abuse issues.

NBA Career Highlights and the Sixth Man of the Year Award

Tarpley was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks as the seventh overall pick in the 1986 NBA draft, a testament to his impressive collegiate career at the University of Michigan. He quickly established himself as a dominant force, particularly in his second season. During the 1987-1988 NBA season, Tarpley had a breakout year, averaging 13.5 points and 11.8 rebounds per game. His exceptional performance primarily coming off the bench earned him the prestigious NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award, an accolade given to the league's best performing player as a substitute. That season, he helped lead the Mavericks to the Western Conference Finals, showcasing his immense potential and contributing significantly to the team's success.

Struggles, Suspensions, and the Permanent NBA Ban

Despite his undeniable talent, Tarpley's career was repeatedly derailed by struggles with drug and alcohol abuse. His first suspension came in 1991 for violating the NBA's anti-drug program. He was briefly reinstated but faced further suspensions, leading to a permanent ban from the league in 1995. This final ban was a devastating blow, resulting from his third violation of the NBA's strict substance abuse policy. The league's decision underscored its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport and the well-being of its players, even while acknowledging the personal battles faced by individuals like Tarpley. Despite multiple attempts to be reinstated throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, he was never again allowed to play in the NBA, highlighting the severe consequences of his off-court issues.

European Success: A Second Act Abroad

Following his permanent exclusion from the NBA, Tarpley embarked on a successful, albeit tumultuous, career in European basketball, where his skills remained highly sought after. He played for several prominent clubs, including Olympiacos Piraeus, Aris Thessaloniki, and Iraklis Thessaloniki, all in Greece. At Olympiacos, he notably led the team to the EuroLeague Final Four in 1994, where they finished second, and won two Greek League championships in 1993 and 1994. His powerful rebounding, scoring ability, and overall athletic prowess made him a star in the European leagues, where he continued to showcase flashes of the brilliance that had once defined his NBA potential. His time in Europe demonstrated his continued passion for the game and his ability to perform at a high level despite the personal challenges he faced.

Legacy and Passing

Roy Tarpley passed away on January 9, 2015, in Dallas, Texas, at the age of 50. His death was attributed to complications from lung disease, a condition often linked to long-term substance abuse. Tarpley's career serves as a poignant reminder of the fine line between immense athletic talent and the devastating impact of addiction. While his NBA career was cut short, his remarkable abilities and the "what if" narrative surrounding his potential continue to be discussed among basketball enthusiasts. He remains a significant, albeit complex, figure in the history of the Dallas Mavericks and professional basketball.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roy Tarpley

What position did Roy Tarpley play in the NBA?

Roy Tarpley primarily played as a power forward and center during his career in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Which NBA team did Roy Tarpley play for?

Roy Tarpley played exclusively for the Dallas Mavericks during his NBA career, after being drafted by them in 1986.

Why was Roy Tarpley permanently banned from the NBA?

Roy Tarpley was permanently banned by the NBA in 1995 due to repeated violations of the league's anti-drug program, stemming from his ongoing struggles with drug and alcohol abuse. This ban followed multiple prior suspensions.

Did Roy Tarpley win any awards in the NBA?

Yes, Roy Tarpley won the prestigious NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award in 1988, recognizing him as the league's top-performing reserve player for that season.

Where did Roy Tarpley play after his NBA career?

After being banned from the NBA, Roy Tarpley had a successful career playing professional basketball in Europe, notably for Greek clubs such as Olympiacos, Aris, and Iraklis.