Three-time NBA champion Boston Celtics forward Paul Theron Silas has passed away per the Boston Globe’s Bob Ryan and confirmed by the Houston Rockets, who are coached by Paul’s son, Stephen Silas.
The Prescott, Arkansas, native was born on July 12, 1943, and played his college ball at Creighton. He was drafted 10th overall by the (then) St. Louis Hawks (now, Atlanta).
He played five seasons for the Hawks before being dealt to the Phoenix Suns, with whom he made his first All-Star game in 1972. Silas was dealt to the Celtics at the end of that season in exchange for the rights to Charlie Scott. In Boston, Silas won NBA titles in 1974 and 1976, made All-Star Game again in 1975, and made All-Defensive first team in 1975 and 1976 after a reluctant start with the ball club.
Dealt to the Denver Nuggets in 1976 as part of a three-team deal that netted the Celts Curtis Rowe, Silas played one season in Colorado before being traded to the Seattle SuperSonics, with whom he won his third and final title in 1979.
The Golden State Warriors will raise Bill Russell’s No. 6 jersey to the rafters ahead of Saturday’s 2022 Finals rematch with the Boston Celtics. https://t.co/ymRwzAVXiY
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) December 11, 2022
Silas transitioned into coaching after his playing career ended, working as an assistant with the (then) San Diego Clippers (now, Los Angeles), (then) New Jersey (now, Brooklyn) Nets, New York Knicks, Suns and Charlotte Hornets.
He was the head coach for the Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers and Charlotte Bobcats (now, Hornets).
Rest In Peace.
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