Willis Reed, legendary basketball center for the New York Knicks and two-time champion of the North American Basketball League (NBA), passed away Tuesday at the age of 80, the New York franchise announced in a statement.
The Knicks express their regret over the death of a player with “unparalleled leadership, dedication and work ethic” and assure that “his legacy will last forever.”
“The basketball community has lost a legend. Our thoughts go out to the family, friends and fans of Willis Reed,” the NBA Retired Players Association wrote in a note of condolence.
Born in Bernice, Louisiana, Reed spent his entire career in the NBA with the Knicks, between 1964 and 1974, winning the championship in 1970 and 1973.
Considered one of the best players in United States basketball history, the center was the “MVP” (Most Valuable Player) of the finals he won, in addition to being the best player in the 1970 regular season.
Reed had a brief coaching stint, coaching the Knicks in 1977 and 1978.
He has been in the NBA Hall of Fame since 1982.
Source: DN
