Sixers To Retire No. 4 To Honor The Late Dolph Schayes
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Sixers announced that the team will be retiring the No. 4 in honor of legendary NBA big man, Dolph Schayes. The honor was announced on Monday.
Schayes passed away on December 10, 2015. He was 87 years old. Schayes' number will be retired on January 23, when the Sixers face the Celtics.
The No. 4 is currently worn by Sixers forward/center Nerlens Noel. He will continue to wear the number, an honor that Noel takes seriously as the number is honored by the team.
"I am honored to continue wearing the No. 4 as a way to recognize one of the most dominant big men ever to take the court," Noel said in a statement released on Monday. "I take the responsibility of wearing the Sixers uniform very seriously and will continue representing the organization, and now the legacy of Mr. Schayes, to the best of my ability."
Schayes' son Danny, who played 18 NBA seasons, expressed gratitude to Noel and the Sixers.
"Our family is completely humbled by the graciousness of the Philadelphia 76ers organization. My father's jersey represents not only his great basketball career, but also the dedication and love of his family, teammates and friends with whom he was blessed throughout a very happy life," Danny said in a statement. "Nerlens Noel is a blossoming star in this league and the Schayes family is honored that he will continue to wear the number four."
Schayes was named one of the 50 greatest players in the history of the NBA and was the cornerstone member of the Syracuse Nationals from 1948-1963. Schayes played his entire NBA career with the Syracuse franchise.
When the team moved to Philadelphia in 1963, Schayes went with them and served as a player/coach for one season. He then stuck around as a coach for two more seasons, winning coach of the year in 1966.
In 15 seasons, Schayes racked up 18,438 points and 11,256 rebounds.
Sixers CEO Scott O'Neil released the following statement on Monday:
"Dolph Schayes is a legend of the game and we are proud to rightfully raise his number to the rafters alongside his fellow Sixers greats. It is heartwarming to know that, prior to his passing, Dolph was humbled and excited to learn of our plans to retire his number this season. We will miss his presence dearly on January 23, but look forward to honoring his life and career as one of the pioneers of the Philadelphia 76ers organization."