A Hall of Fame basketball player and coach who led the San Francisco Dons to two NCAA championships and later coached the San Francisco Warriors in the NBA. Known for his innovative coaching style and ability to develop players.
Bob Feerick, a San Francisco native, is renowned as a pioneering basketball player, coach, and general manager who left an indelible mark on the sport. Throughout his illustrious career, Feerick was instrumental in shaping the evolution of professional basketball, earning him a revered status as one of the most influential figures in the game's history.
Born on January 2, 1920, Feerick grew up in San Francisco, attending Star of the Sea Catholic school and Lowell High School. He later attended Santa Clara University, where he honed his skills as a 6'3" guard. Feerick's exceptional talent led him to join the Washington Capitols in 1946, one of the inaugural teams of the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which eventually merged with the National Basketball League (NBL) to form the modern NBA.
During his playing career, Feerick was named to the All-NBA First Team in 1947 and 1948, with impressive averages of 16.8 points per game. In 221 games, he scored 2,936 points, averaging 13.3 points per game. His remarkable playing skills and leadership earned him the role of player-coach with the Capitols in 1949, a pioneering feat in the league's early years.
After retiring as a player, Feerick returned to Santa Clara University as head coach of its basketball team, a position he held from 1950 to 1962. During this period, he coached some of the most promising talent in the country, including future Hall of Fame player Wilt Chamberlain. Feerick's guidance played a significant role in Chamberlain's development, and their partnership remains one of the most iconic in basketball history.
Feerick's coaching career extended to the NBA, where he served as the San Francisco Warriors' head coach during the 1962-1963 season. Although his tenure was brief, Feerick's impact on the team was substantial, laying the groundwork for future success. He later transitioned to the role of general manager and director of player personnel, solidifying his legacy as a visionary leader in the sport.
In 1971, Feerick was a finalist for the NBA 25th Anniversary Team, a testament to his enduring impact on the game. His contributions to basketball have been recognized by various organizations, including the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame and the Santa Clara University Athletic Hall of Fame.
Bob Feerick's remarkable journey as a player, coach, and executive has left an indelible mark on the basketball world. His pioneering spirit, exceptional skill, and visionary leadership paved the way for future generations of players, coaches, and executives. As a trailblazer in the early days of professional basketball, Feerick's legacy continues to inspire and influence the sport to this day.
93 Years Old
A dominant force in the NBA during the 1950s and 1960s, known for his versatile playing style and leading the St. Louis Hawks to an NBA championship in 1958. He was a 2-time NBA MVP and 11-time All-Star.
97 Years Old
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.
Born in 1926
Legendary basketball player and coach who won multiple championships as a player and coach, including four NBA titles with the Los Angeles Lakers.
91 Years Old
Legendary basketball player, coach, and sportscaster known for his charismatic commentary and 8 NBA championships with the Boston Celtics.
79 Years Old
The all-time leading scorer in NBA history, a six-time NBA champion, and a 19-time All-Star, known for his dominance on the court and his iconic skyhook shot.
89 Years Old
Dominant center who holds numerous NBA records, including the most points scored in a single game with 100. Known for his athleticism, strength, and unstoppable playing style.
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.
86 Years Old
Legendary basketball player known for his clutch shooting and all-around skills, winning eight NBA championships with the Boston Celtics.
