3 Philadelphia 76ers Greats Who Don't Get Enough Respect

Former Philadelphia 76ers guard Maurice Cheeks
Former Philadelphia 76ers guard Maurice Cheeks / Focus On Sport/Getty Images

The Philadelphia 76ers have had a rollercoaster ride of an existence in the NBA. From the days of the highflying Julius Erving, to lows of the Sam Hinkie era, and into the Embiid-Simmons Sixers of today, Philly fans have seen it all.

The 76ers have been around for almost 75 years, starting out as the Syracuse Nationals in 1946. These 76ers stars may have played long ago, but should never be forgotten by NBA fans.

3. Maurice Cheeks

Maurice Cheeks is the best 76ers guard of the modern era not named Allen Iverson. The current Oklahoma City Thunder assistant coach balled out in 11 seasons in Philly. He's the franchise leader in assists and steals, ranks third in games played, and checks in at eighth in total points. Cheeks was the definition of a floor general, leading the 76ers on offense and defense game in and game out.

2. Dolph Schayes

The NBA was formed in 1946, and Dolph Schayes came to the league in 1949. He was way ahead of his time as a floor spacing big in an era without the 3-point line. Schayes spent all of his seasons on the Philadelphia 76ers/Syracuse Nationals. Schayes sits first on the Sixers in career rebounds, second in career games played, and third in points.

1. Hal Greer

Hal Greer is one of the greatest 76ers of all time, and his name is rarely mentioned outside of the record books. Thankfully, he's ever-present in historic stat databases. Greer is first on the Sixers in career games played and career points, and second in assists. Greer was a fast guard with a penchant for scoring, helping win the NBA Finals in 1967 alongside Wilt Chamberlain and Billy Cunningham.