World · Malaysia Bureau
Basketball legend Bob Pettit, first NBA MVP, dies at 93
Bob Pettit, the towering forward who became the National Basketball Association's first Most Valuable Player and retired as its all-time leading scorer, has died at the age of 93. The 6-foot-9 Hall of Famer was selected to the All-Star team 11 times during his career.
LSN Malaysia ·
Pettit's passing marks the end of an era in professional basketball history. The St. Louis Hawks star dominated the sport during the 1950s and 1960s, establishing himself as one of the game's most prolific scorers and rebounders during an era that helped shape modern basketball.
During his illustrious career, Pettit earned numerous accolades and set multiple records that stood for years. His selection as the NBA's inaugural MVP in 1956 highlighted his impact on the league at a time when professional basketball was still establishing itself as a major American sport. His consistent performances earned him 11 consecutive All-Star selections, a testament to his sustained excellence.
Pettit retired as the NBA's all-time leading scorer, a distinction he held until Wilt Chamberlain surpassed his total. Beyond individual statistics, he led the Hawks to the NBA championship in 1957, cementing his legacy as a winner who could perform at the highest levels when it mattered most.
His contributions to basketball extended beyond his playing career, as he remained involved with the sport and served as an ambassador for the game throughout his life. Pettit's influence on professional basketball helped pave the way for future generations of players and contributed significantly to the league's growth and popularity.