A Hall of Fame player and coach who won multiple championships and was known for his dominant rebounding and defensive skills. He later coached several NBA teams, including the Detroit Pistons.
Paul Seymour, a legendary figure in American basketball, is revered for his remarkable playing career and coaching prowess. With a storied 12-year playing career in the NBA and its predecessor, the Basketball Association of America (BAA), Seymour etched his name in the annals of basketball history as a three-time NBA All-Star and champion with the Syracuse Nationals.
Born on January 30, 1928, in Toledo, Ohio, Seymour's love affair with basketball began during his college days at the University of Toledo. As a 6'1" guard, he led the Toledo Rockets to several victories, laying the foundation for a successful professional career.
Seymour's 12-year playing career was marked by excellence, with stints at the Baltimore Bullets (BAA) and Syracuse Nationals (NBA). During his time with the Nationals, he was named to the NBA All-Star game three consecutive years (1953-1955) and earned All-NBA second team honors in the 1954-1955 and 1955-1956 seasons. His most notable achievement came in the 1954-1955 season, when he won an NBA championship with the Nationals.
Seymour's impressive playing career was punctuated by his remarkable endurance, as evidenced by his shared NBA record for most minutes played in a playoff game (67) with former teammate Red Rocha.
Upon retiring as a player, Seymour seamlessly transitioned into coaching, guiding four NBA teams – the Syracuse Nationals, St. Louis Hawks, Baltimore Bullets, and Detroit Pistons – over eight seasons. In 1961, he coached the Western Division Team in the All-Star Game, further solidifying his reputation as a respected coach.
Seymour's contributions to basketball were recognized in the ESPN documentary, "Black Magic," which highlighted the struggles faced by African American players, including his teammate Cleo Hill. Seymour's leadership and coaching played a significant role in Hill's development, despite facing racial bias from teammates Bob Pettit and Cliff Hagan.
Through his remarkable playing and coaching career, Paul Seymour left an indelible mark on the game of basketball. His pioneering spirit, resilience, and pursuit of excellence continue to inspire generations of basketball enthusiasts.
90 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.
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.
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A Hall of Fame basketball player and coach who dominated the court with his athleticism and innovative playing style, known for his impressive scoring and rebounding abilities.
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Legendary basketball icon, known for his incredible playing career and executive success, including building multiple NBA championship teams. He's also the NBA logo inspiration.
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Legendary basketball player, coach, and sportscaster known for his charismatic commentary and 8 NBA championships with the Boston Celtics.
79 Years Old
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87 Years Old
Legendary basketball player and broadcaster known for his impressive playing career and iconic status as "The Big O," with a playing style that influenced generations of players.
