Calvin Murphy
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| Position | Point guard |
| Height / weight | 1.75 m / 75 kg |
| Born | 9 May 1948 (78 years) |
| Nationality |  United States |
| Nickname | Pocket Rocket |
Calvin Murphy is an American former professional basketball player who spent his entire 13-year National Basketball Association (NBA) career with the San Diego Rockets/Houston Rockets. In 1993, he was enshrined into the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame.
Player Profile and Personal Life
Calvin Jerome "Pocket Rocket" Murphy was born on May 9, 1948, in Norwalk, Connecticut.He stands 175 cm tall and his weight was last listed at 75 kg. Known by his nickname "Cal," he was one of the shortest players to play in the NBA during his era.
In 2004, he faced trial after being accused of sexually abusing his five daughters. He was acquitted in December of the same year.
Murphy was uniquely talented beyond basketball, having won a national championship in baton twirling as a teenager in 1963, a skill he inherited from his mother Ina, who was a former majorette.
High School and College Career
He attended Norwalk High School in Norwalk, Connecticut, where he earned Mr. Basketball USA and First-Team Parade All-American honors in 1966.He then attended Niagara University from 1967 to 1970, where he established himself as one of college basketball's elite players. During his collegiate career, he earned Consensus First-Team All-American honors in both 1969 and 1970, following his selection as a Consensus Second-Team All-American in 1968.
Professional Career
Murphy was selected as the 18th overall pick in the second round of the 1970 NBA draft by the San Diego Rockets. His professional career lasted from 1970 to 1983, during which he wore number 23.He spent his entire playing career with one franchise, starting with the Rockets and continuing with the team after their move to Houston.
After his playing career, he served as an assistant coach for the Rockets from 1990 to 1993.
His NBA achievements include an All-Star selection in 1979 and NBA All-Rookie First Team honors in 1971.
Throughout his NBA career, Murphy averaged 17.9 points, 4.4 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. His career totals include 17,949 points, 4,402 assists, and 1,165 steals.
His excellence in basketball was recognized with his induction into both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the College Basketball Hall of Fame.
Career Highlights
- 1966 - Mr. Basketball USA
- 1966 - First-Team Parade All-American
- 1968 - Consensus Second-Team All-American
- 1969, 1970 - Consensus First-Team All-American
- 1971 - NBA All-Rookie First Team
- 1979 - NBA All-Star
- 17,949 Career Points (17.9 avg)
- No. 23 Retired - Houston Rockets
- No. 23 Retired - Niagara University
- 2006 - Basketball Hall of Fame
Calvin Murphy FAQ
What was Calvin Murphy's most significant NBA achievement?
His most significant achievement was being inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993, becoming the shortest player ever enshrined.
What made Calvin Murphy unique in NBA history?
Despite being only 5'9", Murphy proved that height wasn't a barrier to success in the NBA, becoming an All-Star and Hall of Famer while playing against much taller opponents.
What did Calvin Murphy do after his NBA career?
After retiring, Murphy became a television analyst for the Houston Rockets and remained involved with the organization in various community service roles.