One of my all time favorite Wolverines, was found dead Wednesday. Robert Traylor, who had been playing for the Bayamon Cowboys in Puerto Rico, died from a major heart attack according to police. This is very sad and unfortunate news. Taylor was a gentle giant and had a generous smile.
At 6’8 and 300 pounds, “Tractor” Traylor was able to outmatch other centers throughout his career. He could be compared to a poor man’s Jarred Sullinger, because they both play with great size and quick feet to maneuver space. I remember hearing that he studied ballet as a child, which probably led to his excellent footwork. Traylor was a high school All-American out of Detroit and choose to attend the University of Michigan. At Michigan, Taylor was big enough to tear down backboards and on one occasion he literally did. Taylor helped Michigan win its last Big Ten Tournament Championship in 1998.
Taylor was the 6th pick of the 1998 draft and was involved in a trade that sent Dirk Nowitski to the Mavs. Taylor played seven seasons in the NBA before playing overseas. Traylor was only 34 years old. R.I.P. big fella, you will be missed, but always remembered.
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