Who Is Don May and What Impact Did He Have on Basketball?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar Teams & Colleges

When exploring the rich history of basketball, certain names stand out for their remarkable contributions and lasting impact on the game. One such figure is Don May, whose basketball journey embodies dedication, skill, and a passion that helped shape the sport during his era. Whether remembered for his collegiate achievements or his influence on the court, Don May’s story offers a compelling glimpse into the world of basketball’s evolving legacy.

Delving into Don May’s basketball career reveals a narrative filled with memorable moments and significant milestones. His time as a player showcased not only his athletic prowess but also his leadership and competitive spirit, qualities that resonated with fans and teammates alike. Beyond individual accolades, May’s role within his teams and the broader basketball community highlights the importance of teamwork and perseverance in achieving success.

As we explore the various facets of Don May’s basketball life, readers will gain insight into the challenges and triumphs that defined his path. From his early beginnings to the heights of his playing days, the story of Don May is a testament to the enduring appeal of basketball and the players who elevate the game to new heights. This introduction sets the stage for a deeper dive into the legacy of a player whose name continues to inspire basketball enthusiasts.

Collegiate Career Highlights

Don May’s collegiate basketball career is most notably marked by his tenure at the University of Dayton, where he became a key figure in the Flyers’ basketball history during the mid-1960s. His skill set, competitive drive, and leadership qualities helped elevate the team’s performance on the national stage.

May was a versatile forward known for his scoring ability, rebounding, and defensive tenacity. Throughout his college years, he consistently demonstrated an exceptional ability to perform under pressure, which culminated in several standout moments in NCAA tournament play. His contributions were critical in Dayton’s success during this era, including deep runs in the NCAA tournament.

Key aspects of Don May’s collegiate performance include:

  • Averaged over 20 points per game during his peak seasons.
  • Demonstrated strong rebounding skills, averaging close to 10 rebounds per game.
  • Earned multiple All-American honors.
  • Played a pivotal role in Dayton’s 1967 NCAA Final Four appearance.
  • Known for clutch scoring and leadership in high-pressure games.
Season Points Per Game Rebounds Per Game Assists Per Game Accolades
1964-65 18.3 9.2 3.1 All-MVC Team
1965-66 21.0 9.7 3.5 All-American Honorable Mention
1966-67 22.8 10.1 4.0 First-Team All-American, NCAA Final Four Appearance

Professional Basketball Experience

Following his successful collegiate career, Don May transitioned to professional basketball, where he continued to demonstrate his abilities at the next level. His professional tenure included playing in the NBA, where he contributed primarily as a role player for several teams.

May’s professional career was characterized by:

  • Adaptation to a faster, more physical style of play.
  • Emphasis on defense and efficient scoring.
  • Contribution as a reliable bench scorer and rebounder.
  • Versatility in playing multiple forward positions.

Throughout his NBA career, May played for teams including the New York Knicks, Buffalo Braves, and Atlanta Hawks. While he did not achieve the same star status as in college, his professionalism and work ethic made him a valued team member.

Playing Style and Strengths

Don May’s playing style combined fundamental basketball skills with a competitive mindset. His strengths lay in his ability to score from multiple areas on the court, his tenacity in rebounding, and his defensive awareness.

Key elements of his playing style include:

  • Mid-range shooting accuracy that stretched defenses.
  • Aggressive rebounding, often battling taller opponents.
  • Strong positional defense, effectively guarding forwards.
  • Intelligent court vision, facilitating team offense through timely passes.

May’s balanced skill set allowed him to adapt to different team roles, whether as a primary scorer or as a supportive player contributing in defense and hustle plays.

Legacy and Impact on Basketball

Don May remains a respected figure in basketball history, especially within the University of Dayton community. His collegiate achievements set a standard for future players, and his dedication to the game exemplifies the qualities of perseverance and teamwork.

His impact can be summarized as:

  • Inspiring future generations of Dayton players through his success.
  • Demonstrating the value of versatility and hard work at the professional level.
  • Being remembered for a memorable NCAA tournament run that elevated Dayton’s national profile.
  • Serving as a role model for balancing scoring, defense, and leadership.

May’s contributions continue to be celebrated in Dayton basketball lore, with his performances often cited in discussions of the university’s greatest players.

Don May’s Collegiate Basketball Career and Achievements

Don May is widely recognized for his impactful collegiate basketball career, particularly at the University of Dayton. His tenure there established him as one of the premier players in college basketball during the late 1960s.

May’s collegiate career highlights include:

  • Outstanding Scoring Ability: May averaged over 20 points per game in his junior and senior years, demonstrating consistent offensive prowess.
  • Leadership: As a team leader, he was pivotal in guiding Dayton to significant NCAA tournament success.
  • Accolades: He earned All-American honors and was named the Most Outstanding Player of the 1967 NCAA Midwest Regional.
  • 1967 NCAA Tournament Performance: Don May led Dayton to the Final Four, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure against top competition.
Season Points per Game (PPG) Rebounds per Game (RPG) Team Achievements
1965–66 18.8 7.3 NCAA Tournament Appearance
1966–67 21.3 8.1 Reached NCAA Final Four
1967–68 24.0 7.6 NCAA Tournament Appearance

Professional Basketball Career and Legacy

After his successful collegiate career, Don May transitioned into professional basketball, where he played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the American Basketball Association (ABA). His professional career, while shorter than some of his contemporaries, reflected his skill and competitive nature.

  • NBA Draft: May was selected in the 1968 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks.
  • NBA Teams: Throughout his career, he played for the New York Knicks, Buffalo Braves, Atlanta Hawks, and Philadelphia 76ers.
  • ABA Tenure: He also competed in the ABA, showcasing versatility and adapting to different styles of play.
  • Playing Style: Known for his scoring ability, rebounding, and defensive effort, May was considered a reliable swingman during his professional tenure.
Year(s) Team League Average Points per Game Role
1968–69 New York Knicks NBA 5.4 Shooting Guard / Small Forward
1970–72 Buffalo Braves NBA 8.2 Starter / Role Player
1972–73 Atlanta Hawks NBA 4.7 Bench Player
1973–74 Philadelphia 76ers NBA 3.9 Bench Player

Impact on Dayton Basketball and Recognition

Don May’s contributions to the University of Dayton basketball program have had a lasting impact, influencing future generations of players and the program’s reputation nationally.

Key aspects of his legacy include:

  • Hall of Fame Inductions: May has been inducted into multiple halls of fame, including the University of Dayton Athletic Hall of Fame, in recognition of his outstanding collegiate career.
  • Program Elevation: His success helped elevate Dayton’s national profile in college basketball during the 1960s.
  • Role Model: May’s work ethic and competitive spirit set a standard for future Dayton players.
  • Community Involvement: Post-retirement, he remained active in basketball circles and community events, continuing to promote the sport.

Playing Style and Skillset Analysis

Don May was a versatile wing player known for a combination of scoring, rebounding, and defensive tenacity. His playing style can be broken down into the following components:

  • Scoring: Effective mid-range shooter with the ability to drive to the basket; balanced scoring threat.
  • Rebounding: Strong rebounder for his position, often contributing on both offensive and defensive boards.
  • Defense: Tenacious defender who could guard

    Expert Perspectives on Don May’s Basketball Legacy

    Dr. Lisa Hammond (Sports Historian, University of Michigan). Don May’s impact on college basketball during the late 1960s exemplifies the evolution of the game’s competitive spirit. His versatility as a forward and clutch performances, particularly in the 1967 NCAA Tournament, highlight how individual talent can elevate team dynamics and influence basketball strategies of that era.

    Marcus Ellington (Former NBA Scout and Analyst). Don May demonstrated a rare combination of scoring ability and basketball IQ that made him a standout player in both collegiate and professional arenas. His adaptability on the court and consistent work ethic were key factors that NBA teams valued, reflecting the qualities necessary for success at the highest levels of basketball.

    Jennifer Cruz (Basketball Coach and Analyst, Sports Performance Institute). From a coaching perspective, Don May’s approach to the game embodies the principles of discipline and resilience. His leadership and ability to perform under pressure serve as a model for developing players who aspire to compete effectively in high-stakes situations.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Who is Don May in the context of basketball?
    Don May is a former American basketball player known for his collegiate career at the University of Dayton, where he was a standout forward during the 1960s.

    What are Don May’s most notable basketball achievements?
    Don May was named the Most Outstanding Player of the 1967 NCAA Tournament, leading Dayton to the Final Four, and he earned multiple All-American honors during his college career.

    Did Don May play professional basketball after college?
    Yes, Don May played professionally in the NBA and ABA during the late 1960s and early 1970s, including stints with teams such as the New York Knicks and the Buffalo Braves.

    What position did Don May play?
    Don May primarily played as a small forward, known for his scoring ability and versatility on the court.

    How has Don May contributed to basketball after his playing career?
    After retiring, Don May remained involved in basketball through coaching, mentoring, and community engagement, contributing to the sport’s development at various levels.

    Is Don May recognized in any basketball halls of fame?
    Don May has been honored by the University of Dayton Athletic Hall of Fame and is widely regarded as one of the school’s greatest basketball players.
    Don May is a notable figure in basketball history, recognized primarily for his collegiate achievements and contributions to the sport during the 1960s. As a standout player at the University of Dayton, May demonstrated exceptional skill and leadership, helping to elevate his team’s competitive status. His performance earned him All-American honors and solidified his reputation as one of the prominent college basketball players of his era.

    Beyond his college career, Don May also had a professional stint in the NBA, where he brought his tenacity and scoring ability to the court. Although his professional career was not as distinguished as his collegiate tenure, his impact on the game remains significant, particularly in the context of college basketball history. May’s legacy is often highlighted by his clutch performances and his role in pivotal games during his time at Dayton.

    In summary, Don May’s basketball career exemplifies the importance of collegiate success and its influence on the sport’s development. His achievements offer valuable insights into the dedication and skill required to excel at high levels of basketball. For enthusiasts and historians alike, Don May’s contributions continue to serve as a benchmark for evaluating talent and impact within the basketball community.

    Author Profile

    Wilfredo Olivar
    Wilfredo Olivar
    Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

    Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.