Former Minnesota Timberwolves' top pick passes away at the age of 55
Early Monday morning, news broke that former Minnesota Timberwolves big man Felton Spencer had passed away at the age of 55. The seven-foot center played of 640 games across 12 seasons during his NBA career.
Spencer's journey in the league started in 1990, when the Minnesota Timberwolves selected him with the sixth overall pick in the NBA draft. He spent his first three years in the league with them before eventually being moved to the Utah Jazz.
By the time his career was over, Spencer suited up for seven different franchises. At the end of his tenure, he had brief stints with the Golden State Warriors, Orlando Magic, San Antonio Spurs, and New York Knicks.
Statistically speaking, Spencer's best years in the league were during his time with the Utah Jazz. In his three seasons with them, he averaged 7.6 points, 6.7 rebounds and 0.8 blocks per game.
Before making the jump to the NBA, Spencer played college ball at Louisville. He played all four years and went on to cement himself in the history books.
While his numbers might not jump off the page, Spencer was an extremely efficient scorer. During his senior year, he averaged 14.9 points while shooting an incredible 68.1% from the field.
By the time his college career was over, Felton had an FG% mark of 62.8%. 33 years later, it is still the highest in history.
Former Minnesota Timberwolves player and coach speaks on the death of Felton Spencer
Following this tragic news, many around the NBA have given their thoughts on Felton Spencer. Among those was Sam Mitchell, who played with him during his time with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
"No better teammate, no better human being. You talk about a nice individual, a nice man in Felton. I played underzied power forward. Felton was my protector when we drafted him. He was my rook, but he was my protector. He's gonna be missed man, he was such a good human being."
Mitchell was not the only person to touch on what a special player and person Spencer was. The Golden State Warriors and Louisville also honored his memory with heartfelt posts on social media.
"We’re heartbroken by the passing of UofL great Felton Spencer. Spencer was the Cardinals’ all-time leader in career field goal percentage, the 6th overall pick in the 1990 NBA Draft, & a beloved member of the Louisville community. Our thoughts & prayers are with his loved ones."
We’re heartbroken by the passing of UofL great Felton Spencer. Spencer was the Cardinals’ all-time leader in career field goal percentage, the 6th overall pick in the 1990 NBA Draft, & a beloved member of the Louisville community. Our thoughts & prayers are with his loved ones. https://t.co/jalKAnWpK9
We remember former Warriors center Felton Spencer, who passed away today at the age of 55. A native of Louisville, Kentucky, Felton played three seasons with the Warriors (1996-99) during a 12-year NBA career. Our condolences to his family and friends. https://t.co/MGu6t5MRMm