Charles Oakley

Charles Oakley played the game with a renowned tough-nosed edginess, averaging double-digit rebounds six times in his career. Oakley’s brutish enforcer style was a nightmare for opponents to deal with, as his sheer willpower and refusal to be denied often led to second chance points. Playing in his second season, Oakley provides the Cleveland Cavaliers a preview of what’s to come, confronting two defenders at the rim for a layup attempt that is swatted away. Never one to give up easily, the Chicago Bulls forward tries again, wrestling control of his own miss and converting underneath while drawing a foul. Oakley — who led the league in total rebounds that season — exasperated the Cavs all game to the tune of 15 points, 12 rebounds, six assists and three steals in his squad’s convincing 117-96 victory on January 23, 1987.

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