The NBA has a rich history intertwined with the contributions and achievements of Black players, coaches, and executives.

- In 1950, Earl Lloyd became the first Black player to compete in an NBA game when he suited up for the Washington Capitols. - Bill Russell, who played for the Boston Celtics from 1956 to 1969, is considered one of the greatest players in NBA history. He won 11 championships, the most by any player, and was a vocal advocate for civil rights. - Oscar Robertson, a Hall of Famer known as "The Big O," was a trailblazer for Black athletes in the league. He was the first player to average a triple-double for an entire season in 1961-62. - The 1980s saw the rise of Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, two of the league's biggest stars whose rivalry helped usher in a new era of popularity for the NBA. Magic Johnson was an outspoken advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and helped break barriers for LGBTQ+ athletes. - Michael Jordan, often considered the greatest basketball player of all time, led the Chicago Bulls to six championships in the 1990s. His success on the court and global impact off the court helped elevate the NBA to new heights. - More recently, players like LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Kevin Durant have continued to build on the legacy of Black excellence in the NBA, using their platforms to speak out on social issues and push for change.

Overall, Black athletes have played a significant role in shaping the NBA into the diverse and inclusive league it is today, demonstrating excellence both on and off the court.