UCLA Bruins Men’s Basketball: Celebrating Past Stars from the 1980s
UCLA's rich basketball history revisited with iconic 1980s All-Pac-10 picks
In the realm of college basketball history, the UCLA Bruins men’s basketball team stands as an icon, boasting an unrivaled legacy. With a remarkable record of 11 NCAA championships to their name, this program has made its mark as the single winningest program in college hoops history. Under the guidance of legends like John “The Wizard Of Westwood” Wooden and Jim Harrick, the Bruins have consistently risen to greatness.
As we eagerly anticipate the debut of promising freshmen like Aday Mora and Sebastian Mack, the official UCLA men’s basketball Twitter account has taken a trip down memory lane. They’ve been sharing nostalgic moments and celebrating the achievements of Bruins teams from the past, particularly those from the 1980s.
One recent tribute shines the spotlight on three standout players from the 1980s era: Mike Sanders, Rod Foster, and Kenny Fields.
Mike Sanders, a versatile 6’6″ swingman, made waves during his time in Westwood. His stellar college career led to his selection by the then-Kansas City Kings with the No. 74 overall pick in the NBA draft. Over the course of an impressive 11-year NBA career, Sanders played for four different franchises, showcasing his skills by averaging 8.0 points and 3.0 rebounds per game.
In contrast, Rod Foster’s NBA journey was shorter but no less noteworthy. The point guard, known for his time at UCLA, played for just three NBA seasons, all with the Phoenix Suns. During his professional career, he averaged 7.5 points, 2.3 assists, and 1.2 rebounds per game, leaving a lasting impression with his skills on the court.
Kenny Fields, another product of UCLA’s basketball program, also ventured into the NBA. He enjoyed a four-season career split between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Clippers, where he showcased his abilities by averaging 6.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, 1.0 assists, and 0.5 steals per game.
Shifting gears to another era, the spotlight also falls on two key figures from UCLA’s 1995 championship-winning team: Charles O’Bannon and Cameron Dollar. Charles O’Bannon, a 6’5″ wing, embarked on a brief but impactful journey in the NBA, playing for the Pistons for just two seasons. He contributed with an average of 2.5 points and 1.4 boards per game during his professional career.
As we celebrate the rich history of UCLA Bruins basketball, these players from the 1980s and beyond remind us of the enduring legacy and the talent that has graced the program over the years. Stay tuned for more updates and reflections on the Bruins’ storied past!
