Bob Cousy, a name synonymous with dazzling ball-handling, pinpoint passing, and an unmatched competitive fire, wasn’t your typical basketball star.
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Bob Cousy is an American former professional basketball player nicknamed the “Houdini of the Hardwood” for his ability to weave through defenders with seemingly impossible moves.
His Early Life, Education, and College Career
Robert Joseph Cousy was born on August 9, 1928, in Manhattan, New York, United States of America. He is 95 years old as of 2024. Born in New York City in 1928, Robert Joseph Cousy wasn’t initially drawn to basketball. Baseball was his first love, but a chance encounter with the sport on a public court sparked a lifelong passion.
Cousy honed his skills on the rough concrete courts of Queens, developing a unique sense of court vision and an ambidextrous ball-handling ability that would become his trademark. His basketball journey began at Andrew Jackson High School in Queens, New York. As a junior, he made the varsity squad, showcasing his talent and determination.
After a stellar high school career, Cousy landed a scholarship to the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. The Crusaders, then a relatively unknown program, became a national force under Cousy’s leadership.
His dazzling playmaking and clutch scoring led Holy Cross to three NCAA tournaments. His impact on the court was immediate, leading the Crusaders to berths in the 1948 NCAA Tournament and the 1950 NCAA Tournament. Cousy’s dazzling performance earned him All-American honors for three consecutive years, putting him firmly on the professional basketball map.
His Professional Career
In 1950, Cousy entered the NBA as the third overall pick by the Tri-Cities Blackhawks. However, his destiny lay with the Boston Celtics, where he would etch his name in basketball history.
The 1950 NBA draft was a pivotal moment in basketball history. Drafted by the Tri-Cities Blackhawks, Cousy famously refused to play in a small Midwestern town. The Boston Celtics, coached by the innovative Red Auerbach, saw an opportunity. They acquired Cousy’s draft rights, and a legendary partnership was born.
Auerbach’s fast-break offense, emphasizing ball movement and pinpoint passing, was a perfect fit for Cousy’s skillset. He revolutionized the point guard position, becoming the first player to truly utilize dribbling as an offensive weapon. His behind-the-back passes, no-look dimes, and ability to find open teammates with uncanny anticipation mesmerized fans and frustrated opponents alike.
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Cousy’s arrival in Boston marked the beginning of a Celtics dynasty. Cousy became a core piece of the early Celtics dynasty. Alongside teammates like Bill Russell and Tom Heinsohn, Cousy led the Celtics to six NBA championships in eight years (1957-1963).
Cousy dominated as the NBA assists leader for eight consecutive seasons. He was the first player to reach the 4,000, 5,000, and 6,000 career assists milestones. He was a thirteen-time NBA All-Star, the league’s assists leader for eight consecutive seasons (a record at the time), and won the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award in 1957.
His Coaching Career, and Record
Cousy retired from playing in 1963, but his love for the game remained strong. He took the head coaching job at Boston College, his alma mater’s archrival. From 1963 to 1969, he served as the head coach of Boston College.
While his coaching record wasn’t as decorated as his playing career, Cousy led the Eagles to five NCAA tournament appearances, proving his basketball IQ extended beyond the playing court.
Cousy’s coaching journey continued with the Cincinnati Royals (later known as the Kansas City-Omaha Kings). From 1969 to 1973, he guided the team, displaying the same passion and dedication he had as a player.
Following his coaching stint, Cousy embarked on a successful business career. He served as commissioner of the American Soccer League from 1975 to 1979, demonstrating his passion for sports beyond basketball. He also worked as a marketing consultant and a part-time television commentator for the Celtics, remaining a respected and influential figure in the basketball world.
His Family, Personal Life, and Facts: Parents, Wife, Children, Age, and Height
Cousy’s parents, Georgia and Joe, instilled in him the values of hard work and determination. He shared his life with his wife, Missie, and their children. Bob Cousy married his college sweetheart, Missie Ritterbusch, in December 1950, six months after he graduated from Holy Cross.
They lived in Worcester, Massachusetts, and had two daughters. His wife, Missie Ritterbusch died on September 20, 2013, after suffering from dementia for several years. At 95 years old, Cousy stands tall at 6 feet 1 inch.
His Net Worth
Bob Cousy reportedly has a net worth of $3 million. His financial success mirrors his impact. While exact figures vary, Cousy’s legacy remains priceless.
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