Like His Airness, Clifford Ray was also a member of the Bulls in his first ever NBA season. However, unlike Jordan, Ray was selected just 40th overall in the 1971 draft. Nevertheless, he exceeded expectations, racking up 8.7 win shares at a clip of .222 win shares per 48 minutes.

In 82 games and 22.8 minutes per night, the 6'9" center tallied averages of 7.0 points and 10.6 rebounds. He was not named Rookie of the Year (that went to Sidney Wicks), but was voted to the All-Rookie Team.