Bob Pettit, a legendary NBA figure known for being the first player to surpass 20,000 points and the inaugural recipient of the league’s Most Valuable Player award, passed away peacefully at his home in Metairie, Louisiana, at the age of 93, according to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. The Pettit family described him as a wonderful father with a humble, kind, and gentle nature, expressing their profound gratitude for having him in their lives.
Standing 6-foot-9, Pettit had an 11-season career with the Milwaukee/St. Louis Hawks, earning All-Star honors every year and winning the All-Star Game MVP award four times—an achievement only Kobe Bryant has matched. He was a 10-time All-NBA team member and won two MVP awards, including the very first in the 1955-56 season and again in 1959. Leading the league in scoring during both MVP seasons, Pettit averaged 25.7 points in 1955-56 and 29.2 points in 1958-59. He also secured Rookie of the Year honors in 1955.
Pettit guided the Hawks to four NBA Finals appearances, winning the championship in 1958 against the Boston Celtics. His career averages were 26.4 points and 16.2 rebounds per game. Recognized for his greatness, he was selected to the NBA’s 25th, 35th, 50th, and 75th-anniversary teams and inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1971.
Before his NBA career, Pettit shone at LSU, where he was a three-time All-SEC player and twice an All-American. During his senior year in 1953-54, he averaged an impressive 31.4 points and 17.3 rebounds per game, leading LSU to an SEC championship. His scoring average remained the SEC record until Pete Maravich broke it in 1968 with a staggering 43.8 points per game.
Fan Take: Bob Pettit’s passing marks the loss of one of basketball’s true pioneers, whose impact helped shape the NBA into what it is today. His legacy of excellence, leadership, and humility continues to inspire players and fans alike, reminding us of the rich history behind the modern game we love.
Source: www.cbssports.com
