Walter Birtles
Key Career Moment of Walter Birtles
Walter Birtles made his mark in the NBA during the 1978 playoffs with the Denver Nuggets.
A dedicated runner, Al completed the Hawaii marathon and, at 6’6”, was a skilled basketball player who represented Team Canada in the Rome and Tokyo Olympic .
Though not a household name, his defining moment came in Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Seattle SuperSonics. Birtles, known for his relentless hustle, grabbed a crucial offensive rebound and converted a put-back layup with just seconds remaining to secure a 105-103 victory.
Walter was the kind of guy who outworked everyone-he earned that moment, said Nuggets coach Larry Brown.This play exemplified his never-quit mentality.
Unique Skill of Walter Birtles
Walter Birtles' greatest strength was his elite offensive rebounding.
Despite standing just 6'7, he had an uncanny ability to read missed shots and outmuscle taller opponents.
His quick second jumps and relentless positioning made him a nightmare for opposing big men, earning him the nickname The Scavenger among teammates.
Walter Birtles' Stats
- 5.8 rebounds per game in just 18.3 minutes (1977-78 season)
- 62.3% career field goal percentage (highest on 1978 Nuggets roster)
- Played 4 NBA seasons with Denver and Kansas City
Walter Birtles' Legacy in the NBA
Walter Birtles' basketball career may have been brief, but his impact as a high-energy role player influenced future glue guys like Dennis Rodman.
A unique fact: Birtles once played 32 minutes in a game without attempting a single shot-focusing entirely on defense and rebounds. Though he never won a championship, his blue-collar approach resonated with fans and teammates alike, proving that effort could outweigh stardom in the NBA.
Walter Birtles (Ap – Septem) was a Canadian basketball player.