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Despite these restrictions, Wilt averaged 29.6 points and 18.9 rebounds in his sophomore year and garnered national acclaim. However, he faced crushing disappointment in the NCAA finals against North Carolina. A combination of excellent defense and missed opportunities by his Kansas team would precipitate another close loss.

NBA Career Begins

After a year of semi-professional basketball, Chamberlain debuted in the NBA against the New York Knicks on October 24, 1959, scoring 43 points. His rookie season was nothing short of spectacular, as he amassed a slew of records, including the all-time record for points scored in a single season and the highest minutes played—all leading to him being named Rookie of the Year, All-Star MVP, and the league's Most Valuable Player.