Louisiana legend and NBA Hall of Famer Willis Reed– who led the New York Knicks franchise to their only two championships – passed away at the age of 80 on Tuesday. The Lincoln Parish native was a seven-time NBA All-Star won two NBA Finals MVP award. He was named the NBA’s MVP in 1970. Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Chairman, Doug Ireland, says beyond basketball Reed exemplified great character and leadership.
“He was a giant of a man in the culture of north Louisiana. A man whose life story stood as an example; an inspiration and a gentleman,” said Ireland.
Reed played basketball at Grambling State University winning three SWAC championships and NAIA championship in 1961. After scoring 2,280 points at Grambling he was selected with the eighth overall pick in the 1964 NBA draft. Ireland says Reed had incredible talent and his legacy will live forever.
“And you go the biggest market in America – New York City and become a star for a Knicks team that develops into a world champion,” said Ireland.
Reed spent 10 years playing for the New York Knicks where he averaged 19 points and 13 rebounds per game. He went on to become a seven-time All-Star, five-time All-NBA selection, the 1964-65 NBA Rookie of the Year, a 1969-70 All-Defensive
After retiring in 1973, Reed worked with the Knicks, Univ. of Creighton, and the New Jersey Nets. Ireland says after his career ended he returned home and was a fixture in the Lincoln Parish community.
“He was so gracious. Just the kind of person you would want a role model to be. I’m sure that in his day-to-day life in Lincoln Parish – his involvement with Grambling – that was ever present,” said Ireland.
Grambling State University retired his jersey in 2022. A cause of death is unknown, but he was in poor health.
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