Norm Van Lier

Norm Van Lier, born on April 1, 1947, was a talented American basketball player known for his tenacious defense and playmaking abilities. He played college basketball at Loyola University Chicago, where he gained recognition for his leadership and skill on the court. Van Lier was selected as the 11th overall pick in the 1969 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls, kicking off a notable professional career that would span over eight seasons in the league.

During his time with the Bulls, Van Lier established himself as a key contributor and became known for his exceptional assists and rebounding as a guard. He achieved career averages of 10.5 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game, with standout seasons in 1970-71, where he averaged 16 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 10.1 assists per game. His ability to facilitate the offense while providing defensive pressure made him a valuable asset to his teams.

Following his playing career, Van Lier transitioned into broadcasting and coaching, leaving a lasting impact on the basketball community. He was recognized for his contributions to the game and was honored posthumously with induction into the Chicago Bulls' All-Time Team. Norm Van Lier's legacy endures as one of the premier defensive guards in NBA history, remembered for both his skills on the court and his commitment to the sport off of it.