NBA Champion David Greenwood Passes Away at 68

Riverside, California — David Greenwood, a former NBA champion and standout at UCLA, passed away on Sunday night due to cancer. He was 68 years old.

Greenwood’s death came as a surprise to his family, as he had kept his illness private until the end. “Everything happened so quickly,” said Bronson Greenwood, his nephew. “It was kind of a shock.”

Born in Compton, Greenwood developed a love for basketball early, playing for multiple teams in middle school. His brother Al recalled how relentless he was, saying, “He was relentless because he loved the game.” In high school at Verbum Dei, Greenwood emerged as one of Southern California’s best players, ultimately earning a place at UCLA under legendary coach John Wooden.

At UCLA, Greenwood averaged 14.8 points and 8.7 rebounds over 118 games, becoming a two-time league player of the year. He played a pivotal role in leading his team to the 1976 Final Four and is remembered for his unmistakable work ethic, frequently perfecting his shooting with blindfolded drills.

Greenwood was selected as the second overall pick in the 1979 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls, just after Magic Johnson was chosen first. He had a promising rookie season, averaging 16.3 points and 9.4 rebounds while making the All-Rookie team.

Despite enduring numerous foot injuries throughout his career, Greenwood stayed dedicated to the game, often playing through pain. His brother described his perseverance, saying, “I always called him The Thoroughbred.”

In 1990, Greenwood was a key player for the Detroit Pistons as they clinched the NBA championship against the Portland Trail Blazers. This marked the pinnacle of his 12-year professional career.

After retiring from basketball, Greenwood found success as a business owner and returned to coaching at his former high school, leading Verbum Dei to state titles in 1998 and 1999.

He is survived by his brother Al, sister Laverne, son Jemil, daughter Tiffany, and former wife Joyce. Funeral services for Greenwood are currently pending.