Photo Credit: Loc Cousy, via USA TODAY Sports
Yesterday, NBA legend Bob Cousy celebrated his 95th birthday.
Widely known as “The Houdini of the Hardwood,” Cousy was a trailblazer in the world of professional basketball. His skills on the court were nothing short of sensational. He was a master of ball-handling, known for his dazzling dribbling displays that left opponents spellbound. His ability to control the pace of the game and create scoring opportunities for his teammates set him apart from his contemporaries. Cousy’s innovative and unselfish style of play revolutionized the point guard position and contributed to the modern fast-paced, team-oriented game we witness today.
Cousy’s impact on the NBA is immeasurable. He spent the majority of his illustrious career with the Boston Celtics, playing an instrumental role in the team’s dynasty of the 1950s and 1960s. His partnership with fellow Celtics legend Bill Russell laid the foundation for the franchise’s unprecedented success, capturing six NBA championships during their time together.
Beyond his team accomplishments, Cousy’s individual accolades further solidify his legacy. He was a 13-time NBA All-Star and a two-time All-NBA First Team selection. Cousy also claimed the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 1957, a testament to his exceptional on-court prowess.
NBC Sports Boston got together with the six-time champion and asked him what 95 means to him. In true Cooz fashion, the legend gave a very fitting yet humbling response.
“It’s a number,” said Cousy. “I’ve said often over the years, I am literally the most fortunate, luckiest son of a bitch on the planet. Everything in my life has kind of fallen together. Whether it’s faith — hopefully there’s a big guy up there watching this interview or what — but, going through life, all of us have to rely on hopefully good luck or fortune or faith or whatever we want to call it. Most of the bounces have gone my way.
“And so I sit back and just think of how fortunate I’ve been in having, not only a fruitful life, but a productive, interesting life as well, in terms of playing a child’s game.”
