Robert Traylor, American basketball player (d. 2011)

Robert DeShaun "Tractor" Traylor (February 1, 1977 – May 11, 2011) was a distinguished American professional basketball player, widely recognized for his formidable physical presence and powerful game as a center and power forward. Hailing from Detroit, Michigan, Traylor's imposing stature and strength earned him the enduring moniker "Tractor," a nickname that became synonymous with his playing style throughout his career, spanning from collegiate dominance to his tenure in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Traylor's significant impact on the sport left a memorable impression, characterized by his robust frame, tenacious rebounding, and skilled interior play.

Collegiate Excellence at the University of Michigan

Robert Traylor first rose to national prominence during his collegiate career at the University of Michigan, where he played for the Michigan Wolverines from 1995 to 1998. During his time with the Wolverines, he quickly established himself as a dominant force in the paint. Traylor was celebrated for his relentless rebounding prowess, effective shot-blocking ability, and formidable scoring from close range.

• In 1997, he was a key contributor to the team's success in securing the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) championship.
• In 1998, his performance helped the Wolverines claim the Big Ten Tournament title.

His impressive collegiate tenure solidified his reputation as a top-tier prospect for the NBA Draft, showcasing his potential to make a significant impact at the professional level.

NBA Draft and Professional Journey

The 1998 NBA Draft saw Robert Traylor selected as the sixth overall pick by the Dallas Mavericks. In a pivotal draft-night trade, he was notably sent to the Milwaukee Bucks in a deal that famously involved Dirk Nowitzki, who would later become an NBA legend, illustrating the high expectations placed upon Traylor at the start of his professional career.

Traylor's NBA career spanned seven seasons, from 1998 to 2005, during which he showcased his unique skill set for several franchises:

• Milwaukee Bucks (1998–2000)
• Cleveland Cavaliers (2000–2001)
• Charlotte Hornets (2001–2002)
• New Orleans Hornets (2002–2004)

Throughout his time in the league, Traylor was lauded for his robust frame and physical approach to the game, often leveraging his strength to excel in rebounding and post-defense. While he displayed flashes of his considerable potential, his NBA career was also marked by ongoing challenges related to his weight, which frequently impacted his conditioning and overall consistency on the court. Following his NBA career, Traylor continued to play professional basketball internationally, competing in leagues in Turkey, Italy, and Puerto Rico, underscoring his enduring passion for the sport.

Untimely Passing and Enduring Legacy

Robert Traylor tragically passed away on May 11, 2011, at the young age of 34, due to a heart attack. His premature death served as a stark and sobering reminder of the significant health challenges that some professional athletes face, particularly those with a history of weight-related issues. Despite the brevity of both his life and professional playing career, Robert "Tractor" Traylor is fondly remembered by fans, former teammates, and coaches for his powerful and imposing presence on the court, his iconic nickname, and his undeniable contributions to both Michigan Wolverines basketball and the National Basketball Association.

Frequently Asked Questions About Robert "Tractor" Traylor

What was Robert Traylor's nickname and why was he called that?

Robert Traylor was widely known by his nickname "Tractor." This moniker was earned due to his immense physical stature, robust frame, and powerful playing style, which allowed him to clear space and dominate in the low post, much like a tractor.

Which college did Robert Traylor attend?

Robert Traylor attended the University of Michigan, playing for the Michigan Wolverines men's basketball team from 1995 to 1998. He was a key player for the team, contributing to an NIT championship and a Big Ten Tournament title.

How was Robert Traylor drafted into the NBA?

Robert Traylor was selected as the sixth overall pick in the 1998 NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks. On draft night, he was famously traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in a deal that involved Dirk Nowitzki.

Which NBA teams did Robert Traylor play for during his career?

During his seven-season NBA career (1998-2005), Robert Traylor played for the Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Charlotte Hornets, and New Orleans Hornets.

What was the cause of Robert Traylor's death?

Robert Traylor tragically passed away on May 11, 2011, at the age of 34, due to a heart attack.