UPDATE: Today, October 31, 2025, marks a historic milestone in sports history as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of Earl Lloyd becoming the first African-American player to participate in an NBA game. This groundbreaking moment took place on Halloween, October 31, 1950, when Lloyd took to the court with the Washington Capitols.
Lloyd’s achievement not only broke racial barriers in professional basketball but also paved the way for countless players who followed. Over his nine-season career, he would win an NBA championship in 1955 with the Syracuse Nationals.
Today is the 304th day of 2025, with just 61 days left in the year, making it even more significant as we reflect on this monumental event in sports history.
Additionally, on this date in history, significant events unfolded: in 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed a proclamation making Nevada the 36th state of the United States, just days before the presidential election.
Other notable historical events on October 31 include:
- 1913: Dedication of the Lincoln Highway, the first U.S. automobile highway.
- 1941: Completion of the Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
- 1961: Removal of Josef Stalin’s body from Lenin’s Tomb during the Soviet Union’s de-Stalinization drive.
- 1984: Assassination of Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
- 1999: Tragic crash of EgyptAir Flight 990 off the Massachusetts coast, claiming 217 lives.
- 2005: President George W. Bush nominated Judge Samuel Alito to the Supreme Court.
- 2011: United Nations estimated the world population reached 7 billion people.
Today is also the birthday of several notable figures: Former CBS anchorman Dan Rather turns 94, actor Stephen Rea is 79, and Olympic gold medalist Frank Shorter celebrates his 78th birthday, among others.
This anniversary serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey towards equality in sports and society. As we reflect on the impact of Lloyd’s legacy, it inspires current and future generations to continue breaking barriers.
Stay tuned for more updates on this significant day in history and its impact on the sports world. Be sure to share this momentous occasion as we honor pioneers like Earl Lloyd!
