Wilt Chamberlain's family ties still strong on the Philadelphia hoops scene

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The last name Chamberlain is synonymous with Philadelphia basketball.

The family ties to NBA legend Wilt Chamberlain are still felt here in the city. Olin Chamberlain Jr., Wilt's great nephew, suits up on the Temple basketball team.

"My great uncle is why I'm here," Chamberlain Jr. said. "But being a bigger and better person -- being a great person -- that's more important to me than being the best basketball player that I could possibly be."

Following a successful high school career at St. Joseph's Prep, Chamberlain Jr. chose to stay home as a walk-on for the Owls. However, he is paving his own path in the sport.

"When it comes to my last name Chamberlain and basketball, obviously, there's an expectation there," Chamberlain Jr. explains. "But I'm more so trying to get the expectation for myself outside of basketball as well."

Temple head coach Adam Fisher is thrilled to have Chamberlain a part of his program.

"He's making his own name, writing his own story," Fisher shared. "He's been fantastic. He comes from a great family, obviously, a great career in high school at St. Joe's Prep, and he's done an amazing job since coming here."

Chamberlain Jr. reflects on what it was like growing up, hearing the stories of his great uncle's legendary career.

"When you're younger, you're like, 'Oh, Wilt Chamberlain, 100 points in a game.' But when you get older, you're like, '100 points?' Then you start playing basketball in middle school and high school, it's like, 100 points? I don't know how he scored 100 points. I'm never going to touch 100 points," he said.

Chamberlain Jr. was always proud to wear the Chamberlain name, taking the pressure in stride and staying focused on why he loves playing basketball.

"Growing up, I didn't really see it as a burden," Chamberlain Jr. reflected. "I just tried to be the best player I could possibly be each and every single day."