Darryl Dawkins, the first player to go straight from high school to the NBA, has passed away at age 58, according to WFMZ in Pennsylvania. No cause of death was given.
Known for his highlight reel dunks and the nickname “Chocolate Thunder,” given to him by Stevie Wonder, Dawkins enjoyed a 15-year NBA career, spent mostly with the 76ers and Nets. In 1979, he shattered two backboards with his powerful dunks. It caused the NBA to institute a fine and suspension for taking down a backboard.
Dawkins averaged double-figure scoring nine times during his NBA career and reached three NBA Finals with Philadelphia.