The basketball community lost a legend this week in Bob Pettit. He passed away at the age of 93.
Pettit made a name for himself in the 1950s, earning All-American honors while at LSU. His No. 50 jersey was immediately retired by the university, which isn’t much of a surprise considering he averaged 27.4 points and 14.4 rebounds per game for the Tigers.
After going No. 2 overall in the 1954 NBA Draft, Pettit went on to earn All-Star honors 11 times during his incredible run with the Milwaukee/St. Louis Hawks. He won an NBA title in 1958 and earned All-Star Game MVP four times.
The Pettit family confirmed that Bob died on Wednesday in Metairie.
“Dad passed away very peacefully at his home in Metairie, on Wednesday, September 23,” the Petit family said. “He was the most amazing father. The most kind, humble and gentle soul. We are so blessed to have him in our lives and we will miss him dearly.”
A Louisiana basketball legend.
Shortly after Pettit’s death was confirmed, countless NBA fans and media members paid tribute to him.
“The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame mourns the passing of Bob Pettit, a sleek, skilled big man who revolutionized the forward position during his career,” the Hall of Fame said. “The 11-time NBA All-Star and 2-time MVP retired as the all-time leading scorer in NBA history and left an enduring legacy. He led the St. Louis Hawks to the 1958 NBA championship over the Boston Celtics. The Basketball Hall of Fame salutes this true giant of the game.”
“One of the all-time greats. I had the honor of speaking with Mr. Pettit a couple of years ago at All-Star Weekend in Indy. RIP, and condolences to his family,” longtime NBA reporter David Aldridge said.
“The man brought the title to this town and is never talked about. St. Louis hoops royalty! Rest in peace champ,” Will Saulsbery commented.
“It really hurts seeing all these legends that helped grow the game into what it is now pass away,” one fan wrote on X.
“Greatest hawks player of all time,” another fan declared.
Our thoughts are with the Pettit family.
