Darryl Dawkins Destroying Backboards 44 Years Ago Led To NBA Adopting Breakaway Rims

NBA legend Darryl Dawkins was known for his towering presence on the court and his flamboyant personality off it, Dawkins, affectionately dubbed “Chocolate Thunder,” a name that was given to him by Stevie Wonder, transcended the game with his unmatched charisma and jaw-dropping dunks. Dawkins became an iconic figure in the NBA, forever etching his name in the memories of basketball enthusiasts. 

On this day in 1979, Darryl Dawkins shattered a backboard with a slam-dunk during the Sixers’ 110-103 loss at Kansas City. This an another incident just days later, led to the NBA adopting breakaway rims.