University of Michigan Hall of Honor
Bill Buntin
- Induction:
- 1980
- Class:
- 1965
A 6-7 center from Detroit, Bill Buntin starred for the Michigan basketball team from 1963-65. As a sophomore, he averaged 22 points and 16 rebounds per game, earning all-conference honors. The best thing for Buntin was the arrival of Cazzie Russell the following year. While opponents could shut down either Russell or Buntin with double and even triple coverage, there was little chance that both of Michigan's stars could be stopped. With Russell in the backcourt, Buntin scored 627 points, the second highest in Michigan history. Named an All-American, Buntin helped lead Michigan to a third-place finish in the NCAA Tournament. Buntin's success spilled over into 1964-65 when he averaged 20.1 points per game. Behind him and Russell, the Wolverines rolled to a 24-4 overall record and second straight Big Ten title. As a senior, Buntin was named an All-American and all-conference player for the second time. In the Wolverines' second straight Final Four, Buntin was instrumental in getting Michigan to the championship game, keeping the dangerous Bill Bradley in check while scoring 23 points. A first-round territorial pick of the NBA's Detroit Pistons, Buntin played one year in the NBA. In honor of his achievements, Michigan's best player is annually awarded the Bill Buntin Most Valuable Player Award.
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