Unlike many other sports leagues, it only took four years after forming before the National Basketball Association (NBA) began to sign African Americans to the league. The NBA formed in 1946. In 1950, five African Americans were signed to four different NBA teams. Â Here is the starting lineup that began the game for the basketball stars of today:
Harold Hunter: Washington Capitols
On April 26, 1950, Harold Hunter was the first  African-American player to sign an NBA contract. He was drafted in the tenth round by the Washington Capitols. But according to the NBA, Hunter’s skill level was not enough to maintain a roster spot so he was cut after training camp.
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Earl Lloyd: Washington Capitols
Earl Lloyd was drafted by the Washington Capitols in the ninth round and was the first African-American NBA basketball player to debut on a team. He played with the Washington Capitols, starting on October 31, 1950
Chuck Cooper: Boston Celtics
Chuck Cooper was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the second round and debuted with the Boson Celtics on October 31, 1950.
Nat Clifton: New York Knicks
In May of 1950, Nat Clifton signed with the New York Knicks and debuted on the team on November 4, 1950.
Hank DeZonie: Tri-Cities Hawks
Hank DeZonie signed with the Tri-Cities Hawks on December 3, 1950. Dezonie quick after only five games because of off-court racial discrimination, according to the NBA.