Dave Bing

The Overlooked Superstar Who Defined Excellence On and Off the Court

Some players dominate headlines. Others quietly build a legacy that stands the test of time. Dave Bing was the latter, a player whose brilliance often flew under the radar, yet his impact on the game—and beyond—was undeniable. A dynamic scorer, a gifted passer, and a fearless leader, Bing was one of the most well-rounded guards of his generation.

In an era before flashy highlights and social media hype, Bing let his game do the talking. He was a relentless competitor, a smooth playmaker, and a player whose influence extended far beyond basketball. His career was one of perseverance, skill, and quiet greatness, making him one of the most respected figures in NBA history.

From Washington D.C. to NBA Stardom

Born in 1943 in Washington, D.C., Dave Bing’s path to greatness wasn’t an easy one. As a child, he suffered a serious eye injury that permanently affected his vision. But that didn’t stop him from excelling on the court. He became a standout at Spingarn High School before taking his talents to Syracuse University, where he blossomed into one of the best players in the nation.

At Syracuse, Bing was a scoring machine, averaging 28.4 points per game as a senior, cementing himself as a top NBA prospect. In 1966, the Detroit Pistons made him the second overall pick in the NBA Draft, setting the stage for an incredible professional career.

The Numbers Tell the Story

Bing may not always be mentioned in the same breath as some of his contemporaries, but his numbers speak for themselves:

• NBA Rookie of the Year (1967)
• Seven-time NBA All-Star
• Two-time All-NBA First Team selection
• NBA Scoring Champion (1968) with 27.1 points per game
• Career averages of 20.3 points, 6.0 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game
• Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1990

At six-foot-three, Bing was one of the most complete guards of his time. He could score at will, set up teammates with precision passing, and control the tempo of a game with his high basketball IQ. In just his second season, he led the entire league in scoring—something extremely rare for a point guard.

Bing’s Style: A Pure Scorer with a Playmaker’s Touch

Bing’s game was built on effortless scoring ability, smooth ball-handling, and supreme confidence in the clutch. He had a silky mid-range jumper, could finish in traffic with finesse, and possessed a court vision that made him a dangerous facilitator.

What made him unique was his ability to adapt his game. Early in his career, he was an elite scorer, leading the league in points per game in just his second season. But as his career progressed, he shifted into a more playmaking role, evolving into one of the best passers of his era while still being a scoring threat.

Bing played the game with grace and intelligence, never relying purely on athleticism but rather on skill, awareness, and an unwavering will to win.

Two Moments That Define Dave Bing

Winning the 1968 NBA Scoring Title

Few expected Bing, a natural point guard, to lead the league in scoring in just his second season. But in 1967-68, he defied expectations, putting up 27.1 points per game and finishing ahead of scoring legends like Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West. It was a statement year, proving that he was one of the league’s most dangerous offensive weapons.

Rescuing the Pistons Franchise and Becoming a Detroit Icon

When Bing arrived in Detroit, the Pistons were struggling, both on the court and financially. He quickly became the face of the franchise, lifting the team with his stellar play and leadership. Though he never won a championship, his loyalty and contributions made him a beloved figure in Detroit sports history.

Dave Bing’s Most Iconic Basketball Cards

1969 Topps Dave Bing Rookie Card

One of the earliest basketball cards featuring Bing, this is a must-have for collectors looking for vintage stars. The bold design and classic portrait make it a sought-after piece.

1971 Topps Dave Bing All-Star Card

This card celebrates Bing at the peak of his career, highlighting his All-Star status and dominance as one of the league’s premier guards.

1973 Topps Dave Bing Detroit Pistons Card

A great collectible from his later years with the Pistons, this card is a reminder of his legacy as one of the greatest players in franchise history.

Why Dave Bing’s Legacy Still Matters Today

Bing’s impact on basketball is undeniable, but his contributions off the court may be even more impressive. After retiring, he became a hugely successful businessman, launching a multi-million dollar steel company—an extraordinary feat for a former athlete at the time.

In 2009, he took on a different kind of leadership role—becoming the Mayor of Detroit. At a time when the city was in financial crisis, Bing stepped in, sacrificing personal success to try and rebuild a struggling community.

His journey from a young boy with an eye injury to an NBA legend, businessman, and mayor is a testament to hard work, resilience, and leadership.

To own a Dave Bing card is to own a piece of basketball history, a reminder that greatness isn’t always loud—it’s often built on consistency, class, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Dave Bing isn’t just a legend—he’s a symbol of perseverance, intelligence, and true leadership, both on and off the court.