Talk:Jay Arnette

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ay Arnette was born in Texas in 1938. His success in basketball was brief but well-noted by stars who observed him. Arnette came to national attention as the outstanding 6'2 guard who led the University of Texas. While his shooting, passing and defensive skills were still clearly developing, Arnette showed himself to be a remarkable athlete. His speed and quickness caught the eye of many. He was a college senior when tabbed to play on the NCAA all-star team that competed in the 1960 U.S. Olympic Trials. When that squad won the competition, Arnette was one of five squad members to earn a place on the 1960 U.S. Olympic basketball team, which is widely considered the best amateur team ever. As a reserve, Arnette earned a gold medal on that team. Playing AAU ball after the Olympics and briefly playing in the American Basketball League, Arnette signed with the contending Cincinnati Royals in 1963. The Royals already had Olympic teammates Jerry Lucas, Oscar Robertson, Bob Boozer, and Adrian Smith on their roster. Arnette was a reserve for the team from 1963 to 1966, as they nearly defeated the stellar Boston Celtics for the NBA championship during those years. But the team made bad trades and fell short. With minutes declining and competition high at guard, Arnette left the team and the league with unremarkable stats. The NBA had only nine teams during his career. The much larger league with greater opportunities would come much too late for this once-promising player.