3-Time NBA Champ & Former Coach Passes Away

A sad day for the NBA family on Sunday, as we've learned that former three-time champion as a player, and a former longtime coach, Paul Silas has passed away at 79.

Paul Silas — a three-time NBA champion and two-time All-Star — has passed away at 79, per ⁦@GlobeBobRyan⁩. Silas was a fierce competitor and beloved figure. He coached several teams, including Cleveland to start LeBron James’ career. His son, Stephen, is the Rockets coach. pic.twitter.com/DAVSd1Up6r

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) December 11, 2022

The 6'7" power forward leaves behind a great NBA legacy. He was a two-time All-Star as a player, winning championships in 1974, 1976 and 1979. He was LeBron James' first coach with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003, and was a head coach for 12 seasons in all, plus many others as an assistant. 

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 🙏🏾❤️

— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) December 11, 2022

Silas averaged a tick under 10 rebounds a game in his 16-year career, beginning with the St. Louis Hawks in 1964. He was an All-Star with the Phoenix Suns in 1971-72, averaging 17.5 points and 11.9 rebounds. He earned the honor again in 1974-75 with the Boston Celtics. 

And talk about durability: Silas played at least 80 games a season for the last 10 straight years of his career. In fact, aside from an injury in his second season, he averaged 80.5 games a season in his other 15 years in the league.  

His son, Stephen Silas, is currently the head coach of the Houston Rockets.