Revisiting Walt Bellamy's unbreakable 88-game regular-season record

Bellamy's record is commendable, especially considering how some guys today might be willing to sit out some matchups as part of their load management scheme. Karl Malone once shared that the old-school players' mindset is to do whatever it takes to play. Bells surely shared that philosophy.

On the other hand, playing 88 times in a season is not exactly a unique achievement. Many others have passed that mark, particularly those who suited up for squads that advanced deep in the playoffs.

Unfortunately for Bellamy, the Pistons failed to book a postseason trip in 1969. Interestingly, he could have had more than 88 appearances that campaign had he not been traded by the Knicks, who reached the second round of the playoffs.

Bellamy's legacy

Of course, the legendary center is not just known for his regular-season record. His strong production allowed him to spend 14 seasons in the Association, highlighted by four consecutive All-Star berths from 1962 to 1965. However, the fact that he played in an era where Chamberlain and Bill Russell dominated the league hindered his chances of clinching an All-NBA selection.

It also didn't help that Bellamy's numbers gradually decreased after a highly impressive rookie campaign. He averaged 31.6 points per game in his first year in the Association, with only Chamberlain scoring more as a rookie.

In an intriguing turn of events, that was the only time the 1961 No. 1 overall pick eclipsed the 30-points-per-game mark. Still, he retired sixth all-time in career points and third all-time in career rebounds. Of course, many other players have surpassed him in those departments. Nevertheless, his Hall of Fame resume remains outstanding.