Milwaukee Bucks Legend Bob Dandridge Honored With Statue in His Hometown
May 28, 2025 – Richmond, Virginia
In a moment of long-awaited recognition and reverence, Milwaukee Bucks legend Bob Dandridge was honored with a life-sized statue in his hometown of Richmond, Virginia, celebrating a storied basketball career and his lasting influence on the sport and community.
Unveiled during a ceremony attended by family, former teammates, local officials, and hundreds of devoted fans, the bronze statue now stands proudly in Monroe Park—just a few blocks from Dandridge’s alma mater, Maggie L. Walker High School. The statue captures Dandridge in his signature shooting form, symbolizing not only his basketball prowess but also his poise and legacy as a trailblazer in the NBA.
A Career That Defined an Era
Bob Dandridge, affectionately known as “The Greyhound” for his smooth style and athletic grace, was a cornerstone of the Milwaukee Bucks during the franchise’s golden era. Drafted in the fourth round by the Bucks in 1969 out of Norfolk State University, Dandridge quickly made an impact. In his rookie season, he averaged 13.2 points and helped lead Milwaukee to a 56-win season.
But it was the 1970-71 NBA season that marked Dandridge’s place in history. Teaming up with legends Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Oscar Robertson, Dandridge played a pivotal role in helping the Bucks win their first NBA Championship. He averaged 19.2 points per game that season and was instrumental in the team’s playoff dominance, particularly during their Finals sweep over the Baltimore Bullets.
He later won a second championship in 1978 with the Washington Bullets, cementing his reputation as a clutch playoff performer. Over the course of his career, Dandridge was a four-time All-Star and averaged 18.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game across 13 seasons.
A Moment of Recognition
Though Dandridge’s accolades were well-deserved, it wasn’t until 2021 that he was formally inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, a moment many believed was long overdue. This statue, according to Richmond officials, is another step in recognizing a man whose contributions went far beyond basketball.
“Bob Dandridge is more than just a sports legend. He is a symbol of excellence, perseverance, and dignity,” said Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney during the unveiling. “This statue is not only a tribute to his greatness on the court but also to his commitment to inspiring generations off the court.”
An Impact Beyond the Game
In addition to his NBA success, Dandridge has long been a passionate advocate for youth development and education. After retiring, he returned to Richmond and worked extensively with at-risk youth, mentoring countless young athletes and encouraging education as a vehicle for opportunity.
The Bob Dandridge statue was funded in part by local community leaders, former Bucks and Bullets teammates, and fans who wanted to immortalize a hometown hero. Among the attendees were Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Bucks co-owner Marc Lasry, who both praised Dandridge’s humility and impact.
“Bob had the rare ability to make everyone around him better,” Abdul-Jabbar said. “His presence in the locker room, his skill on the court, and his heart off it made him one of the greatest teammates I ever had.”
A Homecoming to Remember
For Dandridge, now 76, the moment was emotional.
“This means more to me than any accolade I’ve ever received,” he said, visibly moved as the statue was unveiled. “To be honored in the place where I first dreamed of being a professional basketball player—where I learned, grew, and matured—it’s the ultimate recognition.”
As the sun set over Monroe Park, fans lined up to take photos with the statue, many sharing stories of how Dandridge’s journey inspired them. Children from local schools were given commemorative jerseys, and a mural of Dandridge’s career highlights was unveiled at a nearby recreation center that now bears his name.
Legacy Cast in Bronze
Bob Dandridge’s career has always been one of quiet excellence—often overlooked in the spotlight but never forgotten by those who truly understood the game. With this statue, his contributions are no longer a whispered legacy but a visible, lasting tribute to greatness.
For the city of Richmond, the Milwaukee Bucks, and basketball fans everywhere, Bob Dandridge will forever be remembered not just as a champion, but as a legend whose impact stands tall—now in bronze, for all to see.
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