Michael Jordan once revealed that he was “privileged” to meet Wilt Chamberlain. MJ felt that because, even though he dominated many individual stats, there were quite a few where Chamberlain still had an edge. Similarly, another legend, who usually disagrees with many of MJ’s opinions, shared the same respect for the late NBA legend.

Isiah Thomas honored Chamberlain by sharing a post on his Instagram account. In the post he shared on his story, Oscar Robertson talked about Chamberlain. He not only saw the legend dominate the league, but also did the same during their time. “Wilt was putting on a show for people you know. Wilt carried the NBA for years.” Robertson appeared on the ‘All the Smoke’ podcast and spoke about The Big Dipper’s dominance during the ’61-’62 season.

“My good friend Bill Russell won the MVP that year, who played great because they won the championship. But when you average 50 points, I average a triple-double, but I’d still say Wilt carried the NBA that year.” Yes, even though Chamberlain dominated the majority of stats in comparison with Russell, the Celtics center still won the award. Simply because he was instrumental in helping the ‘Beantown’ win another championship.

The Lakers legend led the league in points and rebounds and was even the preferred choice for the All-NBA Team. Even when they met in the Eastern Finals, Chamberlain dominated with 33.6 points and 26.9 rebounds. While Russell averaged 22 points and 25.9 rebounds, and the victory definitely tipped the scales in the latter’s favor. Once Chamberlain even claimed he could dominate even in the Jordan era.

Oscar Robertson backs Wilt Chamberlain’s domination claims

During the conversation on the ‘All the Smoke’ podcast, Robertson even backed Chamberlain’s claims. He said, “With the new rules, which are all slanted to help the offense, now when I get the ball, instead of having two or three people and [Bill Russell] all on me at the same time, I’m by myself with one guy. I would love it. I would love it. Fifty points, 60 points, maybe 70 points a game.”

Robertson agreed and stated that Chamberlain was a great athlete who could run track, and play high jump and volleyball. Plus, he has the most rebounds in the game as he scored 55 rebounds against Rusell and the Celtics. Not to forget his 100 points in a game record. Robertson also added another stat that many seem to forget.

Chamberlain also tops the minutes per game played with 45.80, and second is Bill Russell with 42.29 and yes Robertson is third with 42.20. Because they played in a similar era and had to push harder than their opponents. This certainly shows their testament as players. And because of all these reasons, Robertson has no hesitation in crowning Wilt Chamberlain as the carrier of the NBA.

“Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.”