While it might have been Allonzo Trier Day for the Wildcats, it was officially Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Day at Pauley Pavilion.
The Bruins legend-turned-social-activist was honored for having received a Presidential Medal of Freedom from Barack Obama in November.
UCLA Chancellor Gene Block introduced Abdul-Jabbar at center court, saying his storied Bruin playing career was just “really his warmup” for a post-playing career of supporting civil rights and social justice.
Abdul-Jabbar received a second standing ovation at the halftime ceremony, having already received one when he walked into Pauley Pavilion before the game.
“It’s a very special thing for me,” Abdul-Jabbar said. “A number of my heroes attended this school, including Jackie Robinson.”
Bruce Pascoe
Reporter
