Longtime NBA stalwart Paul Silas, who won three championships as a player, and went on to serve as a head coach for 12 seasons, has died at the age of 79.
Silas' death was first reported by Boston Globe columnist emeritus Bob Ryan and confirmed by the Houston Rockets, who are coached by Silas' son Stephen.
Silas played 16 years in the NBA with the St. Louis/Atlanta Hawks, Phoenix Suns, Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets and Seattle SuperSonics. But he's perhaps best remembered for his four years and two titles with the Celtics from 1972-76.
“We mourn the passing of former NBA All-Star and head coach Paul Silas," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. "Paul’s lasting contributions to the game are seen through the many players and coaches he inspired, including his son, Rockets head coach Stephen Silas. We send our deepest condolences to Paul’s family.”
