On this day in 1977: Chicago Bulls' big man Artis Gilmore blocks 11 shots

Artis Gilmore played like a man amongst boys.

© Malcolm Emmons - USA TODAY Sports

Artis Gilmore was an imposing figure on the court, standing at 7 feet and 2 inches tall. He was an unstoppable force on defense, often swatting away shots easily. On December 20th, 1977, he set a franchise record for the Chicago Bulls when he blocked 11 shots in one game against the Atlanta Hawks. With his help, the Bulls won the game, 94-86, to improve to 18-11 at that time.

Incredible defensive stand

The Bulls needed Gilmore's defense to complete the come-from-behind victory. Chicago trailed Atlanta—which got 24 points from Charlie Criss—65-72 heading to the fourth quarter. However, Gilmore's defensive stand significantly prevented the Hawks from extending their lead further. As superb as he was on defense, Gilmore also showcased his offensive skills and put up 35 points on 15-of-23 shooting. He completed the triple-double by hauling down 15 rebounds.

The impressive performance was enough for the Bulls to notch another win at home against their divisional rivals, thanks in no small part to Gilmore's incredible defensive stand. His 11 blocks that game set a franchise record and will remain one of the highlights of his seven-year tenure with Chicago. That night, Gilmore showed why he was one of the best big men in the league and an integral part of the Bulls' success.

Legacy lives on

Gilmore left behind a legacy of greatness. The Alabama native played for 17 years in the NBA and collected nearly every honor available. He was an 11-time All-Star and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011. 

Gilmore was the ABA's Most Valuable Player and Rookie of the Year in 1972—an amazing feat rarely achieved in professional sports. He retired with career averages of 18.8 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks.