William Gardner

William Gardner
(Oct 30, 1933 – Sept 28, 2000)

Gardner was born in Tennessee, but grew up in Indianapolis and attended Crispus Attucks High School, where he was All-State basketball player. After graduating high school in 1954, he joined the Harlem Globetrotters and was known as Wee Willie Gardner (despite being 6’9”). While a Globetrotter, he led them to two championships in the World Series of Basketball and he was also series MVP twice.

After leaving the Globetrotters, he was acquired by the New York Knicks, but a physical illness prevented him from playing in the regular season.

In addition to the Knicks and Globetrotters, while serving in the U.S. Army, Gardner played on the World Military Championship team. His athletic ability also made him a noted high jumper, a two-way football player, and a part of the Red Sox organization.

Location: Pines F3; GPS (39.8137500, -86.1679561)