Hall of Fame point guard and coach who revolutionized the game with his flashy ball-handling and behind-the-back dribbling, leading the Celtics to six NBA championships.
Bob Cousy, born Robert Joseph Cousy on August 9, 1928, is an American former professional basketball player widely regarded as the first great point guard of the NBA. He is known for his exceptional ball-handling and passing skills, earning him the nickname "The Houdini of the Hardwood."
Cousy's impressive high school career earned him a scholarship to the College of the Holy Cross, where he led the Crusaders to berths in the 1948 NCAA Tournament and 1950 NCAA Tournament. During his three-year tenure, he won NCAA All-American honors, solidifying his position as a top prospect for the NBA.
In the 1950 NBA draft, Cousy was initially drafted by the Tri-Cities Blackhawks as the third overall pick in the first round. However, after refusing to report, he was picked up by the Boston Celtics, a move that would prove pivotal in his career.
Over the course of his 13-year tenure with the Celtics, Cousy won six NBA championships, was named a 13-time NBA All-Star, and earned the 1957 NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. His exceptional playmaking abilities led the league in assists for eight consecutive seasons, and he became the first player to reach the 4,000, 5,000, and 6,000 career assists milestones.
Following his playing career, Cousy transitioned into coaching, serving as a college basketball coach and NBA head coach for the Cincinnati Royals. His contributions to the game extended beyond his on-court achievements, as he became the first president of the National Basketball Players Association.
In recognition of his accomplishments, Cousy was elected to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1971, and the Celtics retired his No. 14 jersey, hanging it in the rafters of the Garden. He was also named to the NBA 25th Anniversary Team, NBA 35th Anniversary Team, NBA 50th Anniversary All-Time Team, and NBA 75th Anniversary Team, making him one of only four players to achieve this feat.
Aside from his contributions to the world of basketball, Cousy has been dedicated to charitable work, participating in various philanthropic endeavors throughout his career.
As one of the pioneering figures in the NBA, Bob Cousy's impact on modern society extends beyond his on-court achievements, influencing generations of players and shaping the game of basketball as we know it today.
As the older of the two living members selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, Cousy's legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences, solidifying his position as one of the all-time greats in the annals of NBA history.
92 Years Old
Legendary basketball player and coach who won an unprecedented 11 championships in his 13-year career, including an unmatched eight in a row. He's a symbol of excellence and dominance in the sport.
85 Years Old
Legendary basketball player known for his clutch shooting and all-around skills, winning eight NBA championships with the Boston Celtics.
91 Years Old
Legendary basketball player, coach, and sportscaster known for his charismatic commentary and 8 NBA championships with the Boston Celtics.
93 Years Old
A Hall of Fame point guard and coach who won eight NBA championships with the Boston Celtics, including two as a coach, and is known for his defensive expertise.
Born in 1917
Legendary basketball coach who won 9 NBA championships with the Boston Celtics, known for his innovative tactics and iconic cigar-smoking sideline presence.
69 Years Old
A legendary basketball player and coach who dominated the court with his clutch shooting and all-around skills, leading the Boston Celtics to multiple championships.
66 Years Old
A legendary basketball player and entrepreneur who dominated the court with exceptional passing ability and later became a successful businessman and HIV awareness advocate.
39 Years Old
Star of critically acclaimed films like Creed and Black Panther, bringing nuanced portrayals of complex characters to the big screen.
