Lakers announce death of Jim McMillian

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Today the Los Angeles Lakers announced the passing of one of their former player, small forward Jim McMillian. Their statement:

“Jim was an important part of Lakers history, as a key member of our first championship team in Los Angeles in 1972,” said Lakers President and co-owner Jeanie Buss. “His passing is a sad day for us. On behalf of the entire Lakers family, I’d like to send our condolences to all of Jim’s friends and family.”

McMillian played a total of nice seasons in the NBA, the first three with the Lakers and then three with the Buffalo Braves (who eventually became the San Diego Clippers and the Los Angeles Clippers), then two with the New York Knicks and finally the Portland Trail Blazers, where he ended his career.

McMillian averaged 70 games per season, 13.8 points per game, 2.1 rebounds, 2.4 assists and was an 83 percent free throw shooter.