Byron Beck

Ht. 6-9
Wt. 235
College - Denver
ABA Team: Denver (1967-68 through 1975-76)

First player signed by the Denver Rockets/Nuggets franchise. Along with Louie Dampier, the only ABA player to remain with the same franchise (Denver) the entire nine-year existence of the ABA. Played one NBA season with Denver (1976-77). One of only three ABA originals (along with Dampier and Freddie Lewis) to play in the NBA. Rockets/Nuggets number two all-time ABA scorer, with 8,353 points. Denver starter for seven seasons from 1969 through 1975, averaging double figures each of those years. Veteran of seven ABA playoffs for Rockets/Nuggets with 13.9 scoring average. Performed in two ABA All-Star Games (1968-69 & 1975-76), scoring 14 points in each game.

From Jim O'Brien's 1972-73 Complete Handbook of Pro Basketball:
He came with the franchise. A favorite in Denver where he played college ball . . . Not quick, but compensates with all-out hustle . . . Starting center in second ABA All-Star Game . . . Became one of the better centers in the ABA after switching positions with Spencer Haywood in 69-70 . . . Topped team by hitting 50.6% from the floor in 71-72, just missing making the top ten in the ABA in that category . . . Terrific free throw shooter (hit 140 of 166 shots for 84.3%) but doesn't go to line often enough to rate with ABA league leaders . . . Workhorse of club from very beginning, playing more games and minutes than anyone else . . . Was a second round draft choice of Denver and Chicago Bulls in 1967 . . . After Julie Hammond was cut from payroll in 1972, Beck was the original Rocket to remain with the team . . . Sometimes too reluctant to shoot, and has to be urged to do so . . . Has accurate hook shot with either hand and nice turnaround jumper . . . Tough under basket