Purvis Short

Career Highlights

• Spent the majority of his 11-year NBA career (1978–1990) with the Golden State Warriors
• Career-high 59 points in a 1984 game — one of the highest single-game scoring totals in Warriors franchise history
• Career averages of 17.3 PPG and 4.2 RPG over 745 games
• Also played for the Houston Rockets, New Jersey Nets, and Milwaukee Bucks
• Known as a gifted scorer with exceptional touch and versatility on the wing
• First-round pick (5th overall) in the 1978 NBA Draft

About Purvis

Purvis Short (born July 2, 1957, in Hattiesburg, MS) was one of the most dangerous scorers of his era. Drafted 5th overall by the Golden State Warriors in 1978, Purvis became one of the franchise's all-time greats — a fluid, high-scoring wing known for his ability to score from anywhere on the court.

His single-game record of 59 points remains one of the most memorable individual performances in Warriors history. Over his 11-year career, Purvis averaged 17.3 points per game, earning a reputation as a reliable scorer who could carry an offense on his back.

Since retiring, Purvis has devoted himself to supporting former players in their post-career journeys. His own experience navigating the transition from professional play to life after basketball gives him authentic, hard-won perspective that makes him an invaluable voice in the Legends Life subcommittee.

Committee Role

Purvis Short serves as a Co-Lead of the Legends Life subcommittee alongside Committee Chairman Greg Foster. The Legends Life subcommittee focuses on transition support, career second acts, health and wellness resources, and financial planning for former professional players. Purvis brings firsthand experience and a genuine commitment to ensuring every Legends member has access to the resources they need to thrive after the game.