Ernie DiGregorio

Ernie DiGregorio is a former American professional basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for five seasons. He is best known for his exceptional rookie season and his prowess as a passer and free-throw shooter.

Player Profile and Personal Life

Ernest DiGregorio was born on January 15, 1951, in North Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America. He stands 183 cm tall and his playing weight was listed at 81 kg. DiGregorio played as a right-handed player and was a point guard.

His professional career was hampered by knee injuries.

High School and College Career

DiGregorio attended North Providence High School in Rhode Island. He then played college basketball for Providence College from 1970 to 1973. At Providence, he earned All-American honors and led the Friars to the 1973 Final Four alongside teammate Marvin Barnes.

Professional Career

DiGregorio was selected by the Buffalo Braves with the 3rd overall pick in the 1973 NBA Draft. He had an outstanding rookie season, winning the NBA Rookie of the Year Award and leading the league in free throw percentage and assists per game.

On January 1, 1974, DiGregorio set an NBA rookie record with 25 assists in a single game, a record that stood until 2023.

Despite his strong start, DiGregorio's career was hampered by knee injuries. He played four seasons with the Braves before brief stints with the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics.

He did not play in the NBA after 1973 but he would not officially retire until 1981.

Career Highlights

• 1974 - NBA Rookie of the Year
• 1974 - NBA assists leader (8.2 per game)
• 1974, 1977 - NBA free throw percentage leader
• 1974 - NBA All-Rookie First Team
• NBA rookie record for assists in a game (25)
• 1999 - National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame
• 2019 - College Basketball Hall of Fame

NBA Career Statistics

• Points: 2,997 (9.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 610 (2.0 rpg)
• Assists: 1,594 (5.1 apg)