From NBA to UPS: Former No. 1 pick LaRue Martin’s unique success story - Chicago Sun Times
LaRue Martin Jr. thought his future was set. The Portland Trail Blazers had drafted him No. 1 overall in the 1972 NBA draft. Money and fame awaited.
Fifteen years later, he started work as a UPS driver, struggling to find uniform pants that fit his 6-11 frame.
“There is life after sports,” Martin said. “Period.”
It has been 45 years since the draft, and Martin — a former Loyola star — is now the UPS Illinois district public affairs and community services manager. He is labeled by many as one of the biggest busts in NBA draft history, but he is fine with that designation.
LaRue Martin Jr. thought his future was set. The Portland Trail Blazers had drafted him No. 1 overall in the 1972 NBA draft. Money and fame awaited.
Fifteen years later, he started work as a UPS driver, struggling to find uniform pants that fit his 6-11 frame.
“There is life after sports,” Martin said. “Period.”
It has been 45 years since the draft, and Martin — a former Loyola star — is now the UPS Illinois district public affairs and community services manager. He is labeled by many as one of the biggest busts in NBA draft history, but he is fine with that designation.
