The jazzy name Cazzie appeared in the U.S. baby name data for the first time (out of a total of three times) in 1967:
- 1972: unlisted
- 1971: 5 baby boys named Cazzie
- 1970: 7 baby boys named Cazzie
- 1969: unlisted
- 1968: unlisted
- 1967: 5 baby boys named Cazzie [debut]
- 1966: unlisted
The influence? Chicago-born professional basketball player Cazzie Russell, who stood 6′ 5″ and who opted for basketball despite the fact that his father (Cazzie Russell, Sr.) wanted him to play professional baseball.
Cazzie was the NBA’s #1 overall draft pick in 1966 and spent a total of twelve seasons in the league.
During his first five seasons (1966–1971) he was with the New York Knicks, helping them win their first NBA championship in 1970.
He played for the Golden State Warriors for the next three seasons (1971-1974), during which time he participated in the 1972 NBA All-Star game alongside Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Wilt Chamberlain.
Sources: Cazzie Russell – Wikipedia, Basketball great Cazzie Russell also starred on the diamond