NBA Hall Of Famer Willis Reed, Who Displayed Legendary Heroics In 1970 Finals, Dead At 80

Willis Reed, a legendary center for the New York Knicks and two-time NBA champion, has passed away at the age of 80. Reed spent his entire career with the Knicks from 1964-1974 and was named league MVP in the 1969-1970 season. He made the All-NBA team five times and participated in seven All-Star games as well as winning the Finals MVP for the Knicks’ championship teams in 1970 and 1972.

One of Reed’s most memorable moments came in Game 7 of the 1970 Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers. After scoring 37, 29, 38, and 23 points in the first four games, Reed suffered a torn thigh muscle in Game 5. The Lakers took advantage of his absence to win Game 6, but before Game 7, Reed took painkiller injections and limped onto the court, igniting the crowd and inspiring his teammates. Reed hit two early jump shots and effectively kept Lakers star Wilt Chamberlain at bay, leading the Knicks to a 113-99 victory.

“Willis put his whole career on the line for his team,” said teammate Bill Bradley, praising Reed’s heroic effort.

Reed briefly coached the Knicks and later coached at Creighton University and for the New Jersey Nets’ front office. He leaves behind a legacy as one of the NBA’s greatest players and a true icon of the sport.

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