Born in 1928 in Manhattan, Bob Cousy emerged as a foundational figure in professional basketball, transforming the point guard position through his innovative ball-handling and passing. His career spanned over a decade with the Boston Celtics, where he secured six championships and established himself as the first great playmaker to reach major career assist milestones in the NBA.
Early Development and Education
Cousy attended Andrew Jackson High School and the College of the Holy Cross. During his youth, he accidentally broke his right hand, an injury that forced him to play left-handed while it healed. This experience made him ambidextrous, a trait that became integral to his versatile court performance. His success at the collegiate level led to his entry into the 1950 NBA draft.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Professional Impact and Celtics Tenure
Drafted by the Tri-Cities Blackhawks but eventually joining the Boston Celtics, Cousy played there from 1950 until 1963. He later spent time with the Cincinnati Royals during the 1969–70 season. Known as the Houdini of the Hardwood, he led the NBA in assists for eight consecutive seasons. He earned All-NBA Team honors in 1954, 1955, 1957, 1959, and 1961, and received the NBA Most Valuable Player Award in 1957.
Leadership and Post-Playing Career
Cousy served as the inaugural president of the National Basketball Players Association. Following his retirement from active play, he transitioned into coaching, leading the Cincinnati Royals from the sidelines. His contributions to the game were recognized with the John Bunn Award in 1983, and he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019.
Legacy and Accolades
The Celtics retired his No. 14 jersey upon his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1971. He remains one of only four players named to the NBA 25th, 35th, 50th, and 75th Anniversary teams. Beyond his basketball career, he held various professional roles, including work as an actor.
Fast facts
- Born: 1928, Manhattan
- Primary team: Boston Celtics (1950–1963)
- Positions: Basketball player, coach, actor
- 1957 NBA Most Valuable Player
- Presidential Medal of Freedom: 2019
- John Bunn Award: 1983
- NBA assists leader: 8 consecutive seasons
- Education: College of the Holy Cross, Andrew Jackson High School
Questions readers ask
Which teams did Bob Cousy play for during his NBA career?
He played for the Boston Celtics from 1950 to 1963 and the Cincinnati Royals during the 1969–70 season.
What major awards did he receive for his playing career?
He was the 1957 NBA Most Valuable Player and a multiple-time member of the All-NBA Team.
Achievements
- Educated at College of the Holy Cross
- Worked as basketball player, basketball coach and actor
