Definition
Wayne Hightower (born September 14 1940) is an American former professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the American Basketball Association (ABA) during the 1960s and early 1970s.
Overview
Born in San Antonio, Texas, Hightower attended Texas Western College (now the University of Texas at El Paso), where he was a standout forward on the Miners’ basketball team. After graduating in 1962, he signed a contract with the Philadelphia Warriors of the NBA, becoming one of the early players to forgo the traditional draft route. Hightower played for several NBA teams, including the San Francisco Warriors (later the Golden State Warriors), the Baltimore Bullets, and the Chicago Packers (later the Zephyrs).
In 1967, he joined the ABA, where he played for the Denver Rockets, the New York Nets, and the Utah Stars, among others. Over a ten‑year professional career, Hightower appeared in 344 regular‑season games, averaging 9.4 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. He retired from professional basketball in 1972 and later worked in various business ventures, including real estate.
Etymology/Origin
The given name “Wayne” is of English origin, derived from the Old English word wægn, meaning “wagon,” historically used as an occupational surname for a maker or driver of wagons. The surname “Hightower” is also English, traditionally a locational name for someone who lived near a high tower or worked in a tower that was prominent in the landscape. No specific familial etymology for Hightower’s name has been documented in publicly available sources.
Characteristics
- Position: Primarily played as a power forward; also listed at small forward in later years.
- Physical profile: Stood 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m) tall and weighed approximately 215 lb (98 kg) during his playing career.
- Playing style: Known for a versatile offensive skill set, including mid‑range shooting, post moves, and an ability to rebound effectively for his size.
- Career highlights: While he did not receive major individual accolades such as All‑NBA selections, Hightower was a reliable contributor on multiple teams and served as a veteran presence during the formative years of the ABA.
- Statistical averages: Career NBA/ABA totals of 3,235 points and 1,906 rebounds.
Related Topics
- National Basketball Association (NBA)
- American Basketball Association (ABA)
- San Francisco/Golden State Warriors franchise history
- University of Texas at El Paso (formerly Texas Western College) basketball program
- List of American basketball players who transitioned between the NBA and ABA.