Walt Torrence (2009) - Hall of Fame

Walt Torrence

Induction:
2009

Torrence was a three-year starter at guard (1957-58-59) for Coach John Wooden on UCLA men's basketball team. Torrence made an immediate impact in 1957 as he led the team in rebounding and was named the team's outstanding first-year player. In 1959 as senior captain, Torrence led UCLA in rebounding for the third straight year averaging 11.6 boards as well as a team-high 21.5 points. At the time, both marks ranked second in school history behind Willie Naulls and still rank fifth on Bruin career charts for a senior. He was rewarded for his stellar play by being selected to the All-Pacific Coast Conference team and as a consensus First-Team All-American. Torrence had games of 38 and 36 points games in 1959 as he received UCLA's team MVP award and the Ace Calkins award as free throw champion. In 1959, he led UCLA in points scored (529) and free throws (165) as well as rebounds. During his Bruin career, Torrence averaged 15.3 points and 8.5 rebounds, leaving UCLA ranked third in career rebounds, second in scoring average, and third in total points. Torrence was an eighth round pick by the NY Knicks.