David Greenwood, Indiana’s foremost basketball export, died in a Sunday accident. He passed on June 28, 2012, from the complications of a brave fight against cancer in Riverside, California. He was 68 years old. Greenwood went on to establish a remarkable legacy as an athlete and coach. His larger than life accomplishments at UCLA and in the NBA ensured that his truly indelible legacy would be forever intertwined with the sport.
Born in 1955, Greenwood emerged as one of coach John Wooden’s final recruits at UCLA, blossoming into an electrifying talent. In his four seasons with the Bruins, Greenwood piled up a remarkable 102 victories. He won no more than 17 losses and won league pennants each season. The double-double machine averaged 14.8 points and 8.7 rebounds during 118 games as a reliable four-year starter. His phenomenal output earned him first-team All-America recognition during both his junior and senior seasons. Because of this accomplishment, he became the first UCLA player to receive this honor since Bill Walton in 1972-74. Greenwood’s presence was a key factor in his Bruins making it to the Final Four in 1976. He remains fourth on UCLA’s all-time rebounding list to this day.
In 1979, Greenwood was drafted as the No. He suited up for a whopping 11 teams over the course of his pro career. Other successful franchises are the Chicago Bulls, San Antonio Spurs, Denver Nuggets and Detroit Pistons. He certainly had an enormous effect from the bench in 1990. Directed by him, the Pistons captured the NBA title over the Portland Trail Blazers.
Flores says that “Beyond his playing career, Greenwood was a very good coach and mentor, returning to coaching at his high school alma mater, Verbum Dei.” He guided the team to state championships in 1998 and 1999. It was the inner talent developer and community builder in him that really came out.
Greenwood is survived by his son, Jemil, and his daughter, Tiffany Greenwood. He is survived by his brother, Al, his sister, Laverne and ex-wife, Joyce. His legacy will endure as his impact on the game of basketball both on and off the court influences fans and players for generations to come.
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