late ’90s, but his basketball career wasn’t as successful as his Pop’s. Malone Jr. began his college basketball career at the University of Houston, playing nine games and starting one during the 1998-99 season.
He transferred to Texas Tech during his freshman year and played in 19 games as a sophomore in 1999-2000. He averaged 2.9 points and 1.9 rebounds that season and was oneBut, Malone Jr., switched schools again and ended his college career at South Carolina State in 2002. Malone competed in the Reebok Summer League in 2003 and went on to play in the ABA under Kobe Bryant’s father, Joe “Jellybean” Bryant.
Malone Jr. told Philly.com that his Pop’s reputation often overshadowed his own:
“Who my father was kind of overshadowed my dream. I love having the name. Expectations are sometimes high. Kids would say, ‘Just because you grew up with a silver spoon in your mouth . . .’ But my father is my father.”
Malone Sr.’s other son, Mike, played football at Virginia Tech and competed in the Sugar Bowl.
Moses Malone will be sorely missed. He was a great NBA player and an even greater man with a big heart. Our condolences go out to his sons and the rest of his family and loved ones during this very sad time.
-ILoveOldSchoolMusic, old school news with a new point of view
