Bill Chanecka

William James Chanecka (April 21, 1924 – January 27, 2010) was an American professional basketball player. He played most of his career in the Eastern Professional Basketball League (EPBL) where he won five championships in 1947, 1952, 1953, 1954 and 1959. Chanecka also played in the American Basketball League (ABL) where he won two championships and was selected as the ABL Most Valuable Player in 1948 and 1949.

Early life Chanecka attended Binghamton Central High School in his hometown of Binghamton, New York, where he played basketball and football. He led the basketball team to an undefeated record during his senior season. After his graduation, Chanecka played professionally for the Wilkes-Barre Barons under the alias Billy Stewart so he could preserve his collegiate eligibility. He served in the United States Navy during World War II. He played alongside his brother, Steve. He set the ABL single game scoring record with 58 points during a game in March 1949. He received interest from teams in the National Basketball Association (NBA) but his salary with the Barons was higher than what was offered elsewhere. In January 1952, Chanecka returned to the EPBL when he was signed by the Pottsville Packers. He won a championship and was named to the All-EPBL First Team in 1952. Renamed the Wilkes-Barre Aces, the team folded on January 10, 1953, after playing four games and all of its players became free agents. Chanecka was acquired by the Williamsport Billies and debuted for them that same night. He won championships with the Billies in 1953 and 1954. He was selected to the All-EPBL First Team in 1954 and the Second Team in 1955. In December 1957, Chanecka replaced Hod Springman as head coach for the Billies. Chanecka amassed a 17–12 record during the 1957–58 season. Chanecka returned to the Barons for the 1958–59 season and won another championship.

On December 28, 1964, Chanecka was signed by the Scranton Miners as a player and assistant coach under head coach and close friend, Red Wallace. He appeared in one game in January 1965 before he decided to retire.

Chanecka was named to the Continental Basketball Association's 50th anniversary team in 1996. He graduated in two years.