Clinton Wheeler, Long Branch Star Who Made NBA, Dies

Clinton Wheeler didn't start for the Long Branch basketball team until his senior year. He didn't make the NBA until he was 28. But nothing stopped Wheeler from his dreams.

Wheeler died Feb. 14 at 59. He wrestled his first two years at Long Branch High School before pursuing basketball as a junior, according to the Asbury Park Press. As a senior, Wheeler helped Long Branch go 30-0 and win the 1977 state championship.

He played collegiately at William Paterson, where he still holds second place for most points scored in a season.

Wheeler participated in the Jersey Shore Basketball League, a Pro-Am that played outdoors at the Headliner in Neptune. The PA announcer memorialized each of his impressive baskets by shouting "Wow Wheeler!"

Wheeler played in the NBA for two seasons from 1987-89 for the Indiana Pacers, Miami Heat and Portland Trail Blazers. But some of his best work came with the Continental Basketball Association's Albany Platoons, where he ranks eighth on their all-time regular-season scoring list.

"Clinton will always be remembered for his summertime vacations coming back to his hometown to spread his love and support for the city he put on the map," his obituary states. "During his visits back home it was a tradition playing basketball at the Bucky James Center, giving out sneakers, Bar-B-Ques, catching up with old friends & family members and showing the best Blessings of Life his four son's."

He is survived by his four sons Clinton Wheeler Jr., Cory Wheeler, Courtney Wheeler and Cornell Wheeler; brothers Phillip Wheeler and Benjamin Wright; sisters Pamela Walley and Betty Werner; and many nieces, nephews and grandchildren.