EXCLUSIVE: Michael Cooper on Why All Black Players Left His New Mexico College Team Before He Joined

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Part 4: Michael Cooper on Being Drafted By the Lakers for $30K, Lakers Drafting Magic Johnson
Part 2: Michael Cooper on Friend Chauncey Billups Arrested By FBI in Mafia-Led Gambling Case
Part 1: Michael Cooper on His Stepfather Killing His Mom's Boyfriend, Mom Leaving Family to Escape

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Basketball legend Michael Cooper opened up about his early journey in the sport and a striking chapter in his college experience. Cooper was deeply influenced by his athletic family, including an uncle who played in the Negro Leagues. His passion for basketball blossomed despite limited resources—he even built a makeshift hoop from junkyard materials to practice. Cooper shared that before he joined the University of New Mexico's college team, all of the Black players had left the roster over civil rights issues. Known for his defensive prowess and team-first mentality, developed under high school coach George Turgeon, Cooper credits these foundations for his success on the court.