“This is an incredibly sad day for our Cavaliers family, and we are deeply hurt relating to Bingo’s passing,” Campy Russell, the Cavs’ director of alumni relations and Bingo’s former teammate, is stated in the release. “Bingo was one of the most gifted players to ever grace the Wine and Gold, and his impact on the court and throughout the community made a lasting impression on everyone that ever came into contact with him.”
In May 1970, the Cavaliers drafted Smith. Smith, known for his unique ‘rainbow jumper,’ was a driving force in Cleveland during the 1970s. He was an important member of the “Miracle of Richfield” club in 1976, when the Cavs made the playoffs for the first time in franchise history.
In fact,
Smith is renowned for scoring the winning shot with seconds left in Game 2, leading Cleveland to an 80-79 victory over the Washington Bullets. He went on to lead the Cavs to two more playoff appearances before retiring with the San Diego Clippers.
“We lost a great man,” said Cavaliers radio analyst Jim Chones, Smith’s former teammate. “Praying for the Smith family and all of their loved ones today, as we have genuinely lost a brother, a teammate, a father, and an all-around wonderful person. His influence on the Cavaliers and those of us who played with him will not be forgotten. My heart goes out to everyone he has touched during his life. “Rest in power, Bingo.”
Smith
The Cavs continue to hold the following records: fourth most games played, third most field goals made, third most field goal attempts, fifth most minutes played, and sixth most points scored.
In 1979, the Cavaliers retired his number 7 jersey.
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