Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Former Cleveland Cavaliers Star Bobby "Bingo" Smith Dies at 77

Bingo Smith, cornerstone of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the team's rise in the 70s, remembered as a key player in the historic "Miracle of Richfield" upset and one of seven players to have his number retired by the franchise, passed away after battling health issues.

  • Bobby 'Bingo' Smith, who helped the Cleveland Cavaliers transition from expansion team to playoff contender in the '70s, has died at age 77.
  • Smith, who had been battling health issues, had his No. 7 jersey retired by the Cavs in 1979, one of only seven players to receive this honor.
  • Smith played a pivotal role in the 1976 'Miracle of Richfield', where the underdog Cavaliers defeated the heavily favored Washington Bullets in a dramatic seven-game series, reaching the playoffs for the first time.
  • Highlights of Smith's career include leading the Cavaliers in scoring for the 1974-75 season and playing alongside club icons Austin Carr, Campy Russell, and Jim Chones.
  • Smith remains among the Cavaliers' all-time statistical leaders, ranking 4th in games played, 3rd in field goals made and attempted, 5th in minutes played, and 6th in points.
Hero image