Former NBA All-Star Paul Silas dies at 79
Silas was a three-time All-American
Longtime NBA coach Paul Silas, who won two championships while playing for Boston and Seattle in the 1970s, has passed away at the age of 79.
As a tough power forward for the Hawks, Celtics, Supersonics, Suns, and Nuggets during 16 NBA seasons, Silas was twice selected to the All-Star game and five times to the All-Defensive team.
At Creighton, Silas was a three-time All-American. In 2017, he was inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame.
"I am very sad to report that the great Paul Silas has died at age 79. To watch him play was a joy. To be his friend was an honor," Bob Ryan tweeted on Sunday morning.
Soon after his retirement in 1980, Silas was appointed head coach of the Clippers, who were then based in San Diego. He later worked as an assistant with the Knicks and the Nets from 1988 to 1995.
Along with the Cavaliers, where he oversaw LeBron James' first two NBA seasons, the Bobcats, and the Hornets (in both Charlotte and New Orleans), he also served as head coach. His final career record was 387-488.
"RIP to Hall of Famer, 3X NBA Champion, and my guy Paul Silas. Paul made a huge contribution to the game of basketball and will be sorely missed! Cookie and I send our prayers and condolences to the entire Silas family," Magic Johnson tweeted.
Since 2020, the Rockets have been led by Stephen, Silas' son. The Rockets' game against the Bucks on Sunday night in Houston will be coached by John Lucas, according to Mark Berman of Houston's Fox affiliate.
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