Remembering Charles Shackleford: The Amphibious NC State Star Who Played by His Own Rules

Kinston, North Carolina, has produced a remarkable lineage of basketball talent, with Charles Shackleford standing out as one of its most colorful figures. Before the likes of Jerry Stackhouse and Brandon Ingram made their marks, Cedric 'Cornbread' Maxwell put the town on the map by leading UNC-Charlotte to the 1977 Final Four, later becoming a key player for the Boston Celtics. Shackleford, however, carved his own unique path at NC State, arriving during the twilight of Jim Valvano's tenure.

Known simply as 'Shack,' his time in Raleigh was as tumultuous as it was talented. His disinterest in academics was so pronounced that one professor famously declared he had no place in college, a factor that contributed to Valvano's eventual downfall. Yet, Shackleford's on-court prowess was undeniable, and his larger-than-life personality was encapsulated in his legendary quote: 'I can go left, I can go right. I'm amphibious.' This malapropism, reminiscent of Yogi Berra's verbal slips, endeared him to fans even as it drew chuckles.

Key Analysis

Shackleford's professional journey was as erratic as his college years, featuring a checkered NBA career that included stints with several teams, including the Charlotte Hornets, before finding greater success overseas in Europe. His life came to a sudden end in 2017 when he suffered a heart attack in his hometown of Kinston. Despite his flaws and controversies, those who followed his career remember him as anything but dull, with highlight reels that showcase his undeniable skill and flair on the court.

Originally reported by yahoo.