NBA Great Oscar Robertson Retires

September 3, 1974

Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson, known affectionately as “The Big O,” officially retired from the NBA following a stellar 14-season career. Oscar Robertson, widely known as “The Big O,” had a transformative impact on the NBA both on and off the court. As one of the league’s most versatile and dominant guards, Robertson became the first player in NBA history to average a triple-double for an entire season in 1961–62, a feat that redefined what was possible for guards and inspired generations of players. Beyond his on-court brilliance, Robertson’s influence on the business of basketball was equally profound. As president of the NBA Players Association, he spearheaded the landmark Oscar Robertson Suit filed in 1970, which challenged the league’s restrictive free agency and draft rules. The eventual settlement in 1976 paved the way for modern free agency, fundamentally changing how players negotiate contracts and control their careers. Robertson’s dual legacy as a basketball pioneer and labor rights advocate helped elevate player empowerment, increase salaries, and shape the NBA into the multi-billion-dollar global business it is today.