Elmore Smith, a 7-foot-1-inch center, carved out a significant niche in the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1971 to 1979, primarily remembered for his exceptional shot-blocking ability. This skill earned him the fitting nickname "Elmore the Rejector." His impact on the game, particularly in the realm of defensive play, is highlighted by several enduring records and impressive statistics that underscore his dominance as a shot-blocker during his time
with teams like the Buffalo Braves, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Cleveland Cavaliers.
The Rise of "Elmore the Rejector"
Smith's reputation as a formidable shot-blocker was well-earned throughout his NBA career. His career average of 2.9 blocks per game ranks as the fifth-best in NBA/ABA history, a testament to his consistent defensive presence. This ability to alter shots and protect the rim made him a valuable asset to every team he played for. He led the league in total blocked shots twice, in both the 1974 and 1975 seasons, demonstrating his consistent performance at the top of the league in this category.
His nickname, "Elmore the Rejector," perfectly encapsulated his playing style and the fear he instilled in opposing offensive players. While blocked shots were not officially recorded in the NBA until the 1973-74 season, Smith quickly established himself as a pioneer in this statistical category. His impact was immediate and undeniable, setting a high standard for future shot-blockers in the league.
Setting Unprecedented Blocking Records
One of Elmore Smith's most iconic achievements came on October 28, 1973, while playing for the Los Angeles Lakers. In a game against the Portland Trail Blazers, he set the NBA record for most blocked shots in a single game since 1973, with an astonishing 17 blocks. This remarkable feat remains an active league record, showcasing a level of defensive dominance rarely seen. In the same game, he also set another record by recording 11 blocks in a single half, a mark that was later tied by George Johnson in 1981 and Manute Bol in 1985.
Beyond individual game records, Smith also made his mark on season-long statistics. His average of 4.85 blocks per game during the 1973–74 season, the first season blocked shots were officially recorded, stands as the third-highest ever recorded in the NBA. He was the first player in NBA history to lead the league in blocks, achieving this in 1974. This record was eventually surpassed in 1985 by Mark Eaton, who achieved an average of 5.56 blocks per game. Smith's consistent performance also saw him finish in the top ten for blocks five times, securing the top spot once and second place twice in 1975 and 1976.
A Well-Rounded Player with Defensive Prowess
While renowned for his shot-blocking, Smith was also a highly skilled rebounder. Throughout his career, he averaged a double-double, with 13.4 points and 10.6 rebounds per game. For five consecutive years, from 1972 to 1976, he concluded each season with a double-double average. This combination of scoring, rebounding, and elite shot-blocking made him a significant force on both ends of the court. His legacy is firmly rooted in his defensive prowess, particularly his record-setting ability to reject shots, which cemented his place in NBA history as "Elmore the Rejector."
