Rich Laurel

NBA player, European career

What is Rich Laurel known for?

Rich Laurel, born on July 11, 1954 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a notable alumni of Overbrook High School in Philadelphia. Known for his successful basketball career, he sharpened his skills at Hofstra University from 1973 to 1977 before being selected as the 19th overall pick in the first round of the NBA draft in 1977 by the Portland Trail Blazers.

Laurel played as a shooting guard with jersey numbers 5 and 12 throughout his career. His professional journey in the NBA began with the Milwaukee Bucks in 1977, scoring 24 points in ten games during his first season (1977-78). Unfortunately, Laurel was waived by the New Jersey Nets before the start of the subsequent season.

Not the type to back down, Laurel moved his talents overseas, playing for Hurlingham Trieste from 1978 to 1981, AS Monaco Basket from 1982 to 1984, and finally Basket Groot Willebroek from 1985 to 1986. His tenacity and skill truly shone during his international career in Italy, France, and Belgium.

Laurel's contribution to basketball has not gone unnoticed. He was the winner of the Haggerty Award and the ECC Player of the Year in 1977. His significant impact at Hofstra University was acknowledged when his jersey number 21 was retired by Hofstra Pride, marking an end to his illustrious career.

For an in-depth look at his career statistics, please check his profile on NBA.com and Basketball-Reference.com.