What would be your answer if you were asked which player had the greatest impact on basketball? Not one name, right? But the fandom and Google will surely take you to legends such as Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Magic Johnson, etc. But is this the end of the list? Wait, there is a name that is often overlooked by the fans. What’s more, is that he single-handedly changed the fates of the legends we just named. No prize to guess Spencer Haywood, the legend who saw through the transition of ABA to the NBA.While people may remember his accolades in the ABA and NBA, his impact extended even beyond his on-court success. The four-time All-Star player challenged the NBA’s rule that required players to wait four years after high school before going pro! Interestingly, the legal battle escalated to the U.S. Supreme Court. And against all odds, the court ruled in Haywood’s favor. This allowed the former champion to play in the NBA and it also opened new avenues for the future generation as well. A remarkable achievement indeed.Recently, Spencer Haywood took the chance to educate the young generation about the history of the game. He shared his story on his Instagram. He wrote, “My US Supreme Court ruling Haywood vs NBA on March 1, 1971 that change the game of basketball forever.” Well, the NBA legend isn’t even bragging when he says this. And even if he does, he deserves all the credit. One only needs to consider how his one win against the NBA opened up gates for legends like Jordan, James, Johnson, etc. Care to respect how big this achievement is! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Spencer Haywood (@spencerhaywood24)This landmark decision has had lasting effects on today’s athletes. By removing the four-year waiting period, players now have the opportunity to capitalize on their talents without unnecessary delays. This shift has led to a more dynamic and competitive league, enriched by young talents who might have otherwise been sidelined. This makes him a true pioneer in the sport and the fans agree!Spencer Haywood’s trailblazer legacy leaves fans in aweCan anybody raise questions about the impact of the 75-year-old on the game? Probably not. The reason why fans are rallying behind him. “You made it happen, Spencer,” a fan acknowledged. His legal battle wasn’t just personal—it was revolutionary. “Landmark Supreme Court case. It gave talented basketball players the right to work,” another user noted. Someone even brought up the movie made on Haywood on the stand. The fan asked, “Did they do you dirty on that HBO show? It makes EVERYONE look like a——.” There’s no limit to the support he has received, both from players and fans, for his one big move.Another recalled, “The first time you met @shaq, you had to put him on notice. ‘I’m Spencer Haywood, I paid the way for you.’” The fan recalled the first meeting between Diesel and Haywood. It’s something Shaq himself had recounted previously. Imagine someone like Shaq getting an earful. Only Haywood can pull that, it seems!Despite any setbacks, the respect remains unwavering. “ALL RESPECT. Well done, you!” someone applauded. Others recognized him as a true pioneer, emphasizing his lasting influence on and off the court. A thing to take note of is that despite his legendary status, Spencer Haywood doesn’t forget to celebrate others’ success as well. One thing is clear—his legacy is secure, and the love for him remains strong. That’s how you become great, by leading from the front, for yourself and the things you love.The post Amazement Ensues as Spencer Haywood Relives 54YO “Landmark” Achievement That Changed NBA Forever appeared first on EssentiallySports.