American · Hico, Louisiana · Born 25 June 1942American basketball center and power forward who led the New York Knicks to two NBA championships and won Finals MVP both times in 1970 and 1973.
Willis Reed Jr. was born in Hico, Louisiana in 1942. New York Knicks selected him in the second round of the 1964 NBA Draft. His 10-season career produced 18.7 points and 12.9 rebounds per game along with seven All-Star appearances and two championships (1970, 1973). He won the NBA MVP in 1970, the Rookie of the Year in 1965 and the Finals MVP twice. His most celebrated moment came before Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers. He had torn a muscle in his thigh in Game 5 and was not expected to play in Game 7 at Madison Square Garden. He emerged from the tunnel limping, scored the game's first two baskets on willpower alone — and could not move freely after that, but his presence electrified the crowd and his teammates. Walt Frazier scored 36 points and the Knicks won. The image of Reed limping onto the court remains one of the most replayed and discussed moments in American sports history. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1982 and named to the NBA 50th Anniversary Team. He died in May 2023 aged 80.
Leading Knicks to NBA championships and inspiring Game 7 performance
How They Played
Physical center with strong post game and rebounding ability
Lasting Impact
Knicks legend known for toughness and leadership in championship runs
Career Honours
- NBA Champion 2x (1970,1973)
- Finals MVP 2x
- NBA MVP (1970)
- Rookie of Year (1965)
- All-Star 7x
- Hall of Fame (1982)
- NBA 50th Anniversary Team
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| New York Knicks | 1964–1974 | 650 |
American Athletes