This article was curated by It’s That Part, where we highlight the truth in every fact—curated for deeper insight and critical reflection.
In the early 60s, the NBA star was on active duty in the U.S. Army at the same time he was competing in professional basketball, per NBAs website. He was drafted despite being an inch short of the maximum height and color-blind. By the time basic training began, he couldnt fit the military uniform and was moved to be an official military medic. His performance in basketball got him a leave to play for the Lakers and continual leave by an order signed by President JFK.
