At 81, Dave Bing Shares the Hidden Struggles Behind a Storied Career

Drafted second overall in 1966 by the Detroit Pistons, Dave Bing quickly established himself as an exceptional player, earning Rookie of the Year honors in 1967 and leading the league in scoring with 27.1 points per game in 1968. Throughout his career, he received seven All-Star selections, two All-NBA First Team nods, and was eventually inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame, appearing on both the NBA’s 50th and 75th anniversary teams. Despite these stellar achievements, Bing’s career has often been criticized as “wasted” due to limited playoff success.

What remains less known is Bing’s extraordinary personal challenge—playing most of his career with severely impaired vision. A childhood accident at age five caused permanent damage to his left eye, resulting in blurred vision that, even with glasses, was only 20/50. Without corrective lenses, he would have been legally blind. This impairment prompted Bing to develop a unique style of reading the game, relying on heightened awareness and mental toughness rather than sight alone.

Throughout his career, Bing faced additional physical hardships. In 1971, a preseason injury caused a detached retina in his dominant right eye, nearly ending his playing days. Undeterred, Bing used recovery time to improve his free throws and mentally prepare for his return. His visual deficits forced him to adapt his style—relying less on instinct, more on recognition of teammate size and uniform instead of peripheral vision.

Beyond eyesight issues, Bing endured chronic arthritis, fractured thumbs, and injuries that would sideline many players. The rougher, less regulated style of the NBA then subjected him to frequent physical tolls. Despite this, his resilience extended to a turbulent team environment in Detroit, marked by coaching upheavals and internal discord, which hindered playoff progression despite his individual brilliance.

Off the court, Bing exemplified leadership through quiet dignity, fostering camaraderie with humor and personal connection. After retiring, he found success in business with Bing Steel and served as Detroit’s mayor from 2009 to 2013. His story underscores perseverance and versatility—overcoming physical, organizational, and societal obstacles to leave a lasting legacy of resilience.

His career, far from being wasted, highlights that true greatness is measured not just by championships but by how one rises above challenges. At 81, Dave Bing’s journey is a powerful testament to determination and adaptability, redefining success in sports and life.