Ken Howard did indeed play professional basketball. Before he became an actor, Howard had a successful basketball career, playing for the Chicago Bulls in the late 1960s. He was drafted by the team in 1967 and played for them for two seasons before retiring from basketball to pursue acting full-time.
During his time with the Bulls, Howard primarily played as a forward. He was known for his athleticism and skill on the court, which helped him secure a spot on the team. However, his passion for acting eventually led him to transition away from basketball and towards a career in the entertainment industry.
It is worth noting that while Howard did play professional basketball, his basketball career was not as prominent or long-lasting as his acting career. After leaving the sport, he went on to achieve great success as an actor, starring in various television shows, movies, and stage productions.
Howard’s most notable role as a basketball player came later in his career when he portrayed the character of Ken Reeves, a former professional basketball player turned coach, in the television series “The White Shadow.” The show, which aired from 1978 to 1981, showcased Howard’s basketball background and allowed him to bring his personal experiences to the role.
Ken Howard did play professional basketball for the Chicago Bulls before transitioning to a successful acting career. While his time in the sport may not have been as long-lasting as his acting career, his basketball background undoubtedly influenced his portrayal of basketball-related characters in his acting roles.