February 5, 1972 -- Robert "Bob" Douglas becomes the first African American to be elected into the Basketball HOF as a contributor, coming 13 years after the HOF opened in 1959. Douglas owned and coached the Renaissance, commonly referred as the Rens from 1923 to 1949, winning more than 2,000 games against black and white teams, alike, despite the heat of substantial racial discrimination. With Douglas being enshrined as a “contributor,” Bill Russell would become the first black player or coach to be elected to the HOF in 1975.
Also happening this week:
- February 5, 1921 -- The Yankees purchase 20 acres in the Bronx for Yankee Stadium.
- February 6, 1970 -- The NBA expands to 18 teams with Buffalo, Cleveland, Houston and Portland.
- February 6, 1990 -- Groundbreaking begins at the Orioles' new $102M ballpark, Camden Fields.
- February 7, 1958 -- The Dodgers officially become the L.A. Dodgers, Inc.
