Hall of Fame
Master of deadly accurate two-hand set shot released from top of his head. First Northern Illinois cager to perform in NBA. Played guard at 5-foot-10, 170 pounds for Sheboygan (WI) Redskins in era of such vintage NBA all-stars as George Mikan, Vern Mikkelson, Jim Pollard, Slater Martin, Don Otten, Alex Groza, Max Zaslofsky, Al Cervi, etc. (1949-50). "Wood is regarded as one of the finest set shot artists in the nation," stated the 1949-50 NBA Record Book. "In a recent tryout at Sheboygan, he sank 30 out of 33 shots from near mid-court." Signed free agent contract with Redskins (September, 1949). Honored on All-Century Team during Northern Illinois men's basketball Centennial (2000-01). Graduated as all-time Huskie career scorer (983 points in 1945-49). Established school post World Ear II single-game (29 points, vs. Western Illinois in 1948-49) and career (983) scoring standards. Awarded four "NI" varsity letters (1945-49). Ranked No. 25 in NCAA College Division free throw percentage (.741 on 40-of-54) as junior (1947-48). Selected team MVP twice for Hall of Fame head coach Ralph McKinzie (1946-47 & 1948-49). Voted NIU captain as senior (1948-49). Led Huskies in scoring as junior (276 points) and senior (282). Made collegiate debut and captured IIAC scoring crown (1945-46). Nicknamed "Woody" and "Rockford Meteor." All-Stater on league championship quintet at Rockford Central High as prep senior (1939-40). Served in U.S. Marines in Pacific Theater during World War II (1942-45). Principal at Rockford Guilford High (1968-76).
