Howard Kelsey
Key Career Moment of Howard Kelsey
Howard Kelsey made his mark in basketball history during the 1956 NBA season when he led the Rochester Royals in scoring with a career-high 42 points against the Boston Celtics. This performance, filled with clutch shots and relentless drives, solidified his reputation as a fearless scorer.
The two-time Canadian Olympian (, ) stands as one of only two native British Columbian basketball players to represent Canada in two Olympic Games. Among Canada’s best results .
Kelsey had an uncanny ability to rise to the occasion, said Celtics legend Bob Cousy after the game.This game remains a defining moment in Howard Kelsey's NBA career.
Unique Skill of Howard Kelsey
Howard Kelsey was known for his exceptional mid-range shooting and crafty footwork.
Unlike many players of his era, he perfected the pull-up jumper, often freezing defenders with hesitation moves before rising up for a smooth shot.
Howard Kelsey (born 8 August ) is a former Canadian basketball player and two-time Olympian.
His ability to create space made him a difficult matchup even for elite defenders.
Howard Kelsey's Stats
- Scored 18.7 points per game in his best NBA season (1956)
- Played 7 seasons in the NBA across three teams
- Named to the 1955 All-Star Game
Howard Kelsey's Legacy in the NBA
Howard Kelsey's basketball career helped pave the way for future scoring guards with his polished offensive game.
Though he never won a championship, his influence was felt by teammates and opponents alike. A unique fact: Kelsey once scored 30+ points in five straight games during the 1957 season, a rare feat at the time. Today, his legacy lives on as an underrated pioneer of skill-based guard play in the NBA.