The Cleveland Cavaliers announced Thursday that Bobby “Bingo” Smith, one of the franchise’s all-time greats, has died at the age of 77.
Smith played for the Cavs across 10 seasons in the 1970s and was a key member for the “Miracle at Richfield” squad in 1975. His No. 7 jersey hangs in the rafters at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
“Bingo and I were teammates for almost a decade, and we experienced the full spectrum of emotions and successes here in Cleveland while representing our beloved Cavaliers,” said Cavaliers television analyst Austin Carr in a statement. “From the early expansion years of the team, to our first-ever playoff experience and the Miracle season, Bingo was always a giving teammate and one of the most fierce competitors I ever played with. This is truly a sad moment in our franchise history and my heart goes out to his family.”
Selected by the Cavaliers in the 1970 expansion draft, Smith went on to play an integral part as Cleveland grew into a contender.
Smith remains in the top 10 on the Cavs’ all-time lists in games played (fourth), field goals made (third), minutes played (fifth) and points scored (sixth). His jersey was retired on Dec. 4, 1979. Smith is one of seven Cavaliers with a retired number.
“This is an incredibly sad day for our Cavaliers family and we are deeply hurt relating to Bingo’s passing,” said Director of Alumni Relations and former Cavaliers teammate Campy Russell. “Bingo was one of the most gifted players to ever grace the Wine and Gold, and his impact on the court and throughout the community made a lasting impression on everyone that ever came into contact with him. He spent the majority of his life doing what he loved, and his loyalty to the Cavaliers never wavered.
“As a Cavaliers ambassador, Bingo consistently devoted his time embracing fans and sharing a piece of his basketball journey long after his playing days were over. The thoughts and prayers of this organization and Cavaliers fans across Northeast Ohio are with the entire Smith family.”
Ryan Lewis can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter at @ByRyanLewis.