There Is More To Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's Goggles Than Meets The Eye

Before dominating in the NBA, Abdul-Jabbar, still going by Lew Alcindor at that point, was playing under John Wooden at UCLA during UCLA's dynasty. He spent his time at UCLA perfecting his craft, especially his patented sky hook. According to NCAA, Abdul-Jabbar averaged 26.4 points and 15.5 rebounds per game over his 1966-69 career at UCLA. He also led UCLA to an impressive 88-2 record and three NCAA Championships during his three years (via NCAA). Even then, Abdul-Jabbar's height was one of the major aspects of his game that separated him from his peers.

His frame also made him a great defender. According to Basketball Reference, he was a four-time league leader in blocks and averaged 2.6 per game for his career. In the midst of his overwhelming accomplishments, however, there was one major drawback that would eventually lead to him donning what became his trademark goggles on the court.

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