1955-56 - Duo of Arizin and Johnston leads Warriors to victory
After a season of change, there came the time for another, which was to
consolidate the new rules and habits. The league scoring average surged to 99
points per game. Finally, besides the athletic strength, also quickness came
into play. Bob Pettit took the league scoring title with 25.7 ppg.
Philadelphia won the East devision with the score 45-27, and in the West
triumphed Fort Wayne. The Warriors had a well-balanced lineup of five players:
Neil Johnston, Joe Graboski, Walt Davis, Paul Arizin and Tom Gola, all coached
by Georga Senesky.
Paul Arizin had a reputation of a point scorer. He was extremely versitile,
from long set shots to driving layups and often hook shots. Even a two-year
military service could throw him off his beat. In the 10 Playoff games in 1956,
Arizin scored 289 points, more than anyone ever. except Mikan. Scoring of this
magnitude would have never been possible if it hadn't been for such team members
as Gola, Jack George and Neil Johnston at center.
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