Butch Beard
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| Position | Point guard |
| Height / weight | 1.91 m / 84 kg |
| Born | 5 May 1947 (79 years) |
| Nationality |  United States |
| Nickname | Butch |
Butch Beard is a former American professional basketball player and coach who played ten seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
He is best known for his role in the Golden State Warriors' 1975 NBA Championship team and his later coaching career.
Player Profile
Alfred "Butch" Beard Jr. was born on May 5, 1947, in Hardinsburg, Kentucky, United States of America. He stands 190 cm tall and his playing weight was listed at 84 kg. Beard played primarily as a point guard.High School and College Career
Beard attended Breckinridge County High School in Hardinsburg, Kentucky, where he led his team to the 1965 state championship and was named Kentucky Mr. Basketball.He then played college basketball for the University of Louisville from 1965 to 1969.
Professional Career
Beard's professional basketball career began in 1969 when he was selected as the 10th overall pick in the first round of the NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks.A versatile guard who wore numbers 14, 21, and 9 throughout his career, Beard played for multiple teams during his decade-long stint in the NBA. He started with the Hawks for the 1969-1970 season before moving to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 1971.
Beard's journey continued with the Seattle SuperSonics in the 1972-1973 season, followed by a significant period with the Golden State Warriors from 1973 to 1975.
It was with the Warriors that Beard achieved his greatest success as a player, winning an NBA championship in 1975.
After a brief return to the Cavaliers in 1975, he concluded his playing career with the New York Knicks, where he played from 1975 to 1979. During his time in the NBA, Beard also earned an NBA All-Star selection in 1972, highlighting his skill and impact on the court.
Coaching Career
Following his playing career, Beard transitioned into coaching. He began his coaching journey at the collegiate level, leading Howard University from 1990 to 1994.Beard then made the leap to the NBA, serving as the Head Coach for the New Jersey Nets from 1994 to 1996. After a brief hiatus, he returned to college basketball, coaching Morgan State from 2001 to 2006.
Career Highlights
- 1975 - NBA champion
- 1972 - NBA All-Star
- 1969 - Third-team All-American – UPI
- 1969 - First-team All-MVC
- 1968 - First-team All-MVC
- 1967 - First-team All-MVC
- 1965 - Second-team Parade All-American
- 1965 - Kentucky Mr. Basketball
Trophies and Awards
Butch Beard FAQ
What was Butch Beard's most significant NBA achievement?
Winning the 1975 NBA championship with the Golden State Warriors, where he played a crucial role in the final moments of the championship-clinching game.
How many NBA teams did Butch Beard play for?
Beard played for five NBA teams throughout his career: Atlanta Hawks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Seattle SuperSonics, Golden State Warriors, and New York Knicks.
What was Butch Beard's coaching record in the NBA?
As head coach of the New Jersey Nets from 1994 to 1996, Beard compiled a record of 60-104 over two seasons.