Last Updated on April 2, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

Here’s detailed information about Bob Burrow:

  • Full Name: Robert Edward Burrow
  • Nationality: American
  • Date of Birth: June 29, 1934
  • Date of Death: January 3, 2019
  • Hometown: Malvern, Arkansas, USA
  • Height: 6 feet 7 inches (2.01 meters)
  • Weight: 228 pounds (103 kilograms)
  • Wingspan: 6 feet 8 inches
  • Shoe Size: Size 15 (US)
  • Jersey Number: 16
  • Position: Power Forward / Center
  • High School: Emerson High School (Emerson, Arkansas)
  • College: University of Kentucky (1954–1956)
    • Two-time All-American at Kentucky.
    • Known for his rebounding and scoring ability.
    • Still holds Kentucky’s single-season rebounding record (459 in 1954–55).
  • NBA Draft
    • Year: 1956
    • Round: 1st
    • Overall Pick: 9th
    • Team: Rochester Royals
  • Teams Played For
    1. Rochester Royals (1956–1957)
    2. Minneapolis Lakers (1957)
  • Career Highlights
    • Played in the NBA for only one season, appearing in 66 games and averaging 5.7 points and 4.3 rebounds per game.
  • Championship Rings
    • NBA Championships: None
  • Kids: Not widely documented
  • Siblings: Not widely documented

Bob Burrow’s player archetype was that of an old-school rebound-first interior big, a rugged center/power forward who made his biggest impact as a paint presence, screen setter, and second-chance finisher rather than a creator with the ball. Defensively, he fit as a physical interior anchor and high-motor glass cleaner, using his strong 6-foot-7, 228-pound frame to battle for position, protect possessions, and control the boards. Offensively, his role was straightforward and efficient: work inside, finish near the rim, and generate value through rebounding and put-backs. His physical traits were built more on strength, toughness, and leverage than finesse, and that showed in a play style defined by hard-nosed interior work, relentless rebounding, and practical, team-first offense. (UK Athletics)

Fun Facts

  • Bob Burrow is remembered for his college dominance at Kentucky, particularly his rebounding prowess.
  • Although his professional career was brief, his contributions at the collegiate level have cemented his legacy in basketball history.

Sources:
UK Athletics — UK Men’s Basketball All-American Bob Burrow Dead at 84
Basketball-Reference — Bob Burrow Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft Status and more
AP News — Kentucky rebounding leader Bob Burrow dies at age 84