Rutgers University mourns the loss of its basketball legend, Phil Sellers, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 69 following a stroke earlier this month. Sellers’ basketball prowess made him an unfading mark in Rutgers’ athletic history.
Born in Brooklyn, Sellers build a remarkable career at Rutgers, leading the 1975-76 team go undefeated and reach the Final Four Although they were ultimately defeated by Michigan, the team’s 31-2 record stands as a testament to their prowess and remains a high milestone in Scarlet Knights basketball.
During his tenure from 1972 to 1976, Sellers set records with amazing 2,399 career points and 1,115 rebounds. His outstanding performance did not go unnoticed. In 1976, he was named All-American forward.
Steve Hefele, a former teammate, recalled Sellers’ on-court behaviour, describing him as “an intimidating presence” who became the main focus of opposition strategies. A standout memory for many, including Hefele, was the game against Syracuse at Manley Field House in February 1975. In front of huge home crowd, Sellers showcased his ability to perform well under pressure.
Apart from his 1976 achievements, Sellers played pivotal roles in leading Rutgers to National Invitation Tournament (NIT) appearances in 1973 and 1974, as well as an NCAA appearance in 1975. Sellers’ initial journey to Rutgers was under the recruitment of then-assistant coach Dick Vitale. Though Sellers had initially committed to Notre Dame, he ultimately chose to remain closer to home.
Phil Sellers’ post college life and legacy
Despite his collegiate success, Sellers transition to professional basketball was challenging. Drafted in the third round of the 1976 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons, he played only 44 games, averaging 4.5 points per game. After a brief stint in the NBA, Sellers took his talents to the Netherlands, but he soon decided to retire from the sport.
However, Rutgers ensured his contributions wouldn’t be forgotten. In 1988, Sellers’ No. 12 jersey was retired by the university. As a lasting tribute, his jersey now hangs in the rafters of Jersey Mike’s Arena.
Rest in Peace to the G.O.A.T. of Rutgers men’s basketball Phil Sellers. We send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Sellers is the all-time leader in points scored and rebounds at RU and was the captain of the best team in Rutgers history in 1975-76 that… pic.twitter.com/ngL8TEr0Qm
— Rutgers Men’s Basketball 🏀 (@RutgersMBB) September 20, 2023
Current Rutgers head coach Steve Pikiell paid homage, stating, “Phil Sellers is Rutgers royalty. He is the greatest player on the greatest team in our program’s history.” He further praised Sellers as an “ultimate role model” for the current generation of Scarlet Knights.
As the basketball community reflects on Sellers’ impactful career, it’s evident that his legacy as a player and a leader remains unmatched. The Rutgers men’s basketball team, alongside countless fans, sends its heartfelt condolences to his family, remembering the legendary Phil “The Thrill” Sellers.