Reports reveal Chris Ford , who etched his name in the history books as one of the most iconic basketball players of all time, has died. The former Boston Celtics coach is said to have passed away at 74 following an alleged short battle with a heart condition. Find out more.
When Did Chris Die?
Chris’s family left the world in shock after they announced the death of the legendary NBA player. A statement shared through the NBA’s website revealed that Chris passed away on January 17, 2023 .
Chris Loved And Was Loved
The statement also noted that Chris was beloved by his family, friends, and teammates. The deceased also loved his family, the city of Boston, the fans, and the entire Celtics family.
Other Qualities Chris Possessed
Additionally, Chris possessed humility and respect for those fortunate enough to be part of his life. While the family mentioned no official cause of death, the Press of Atlantic City reported Chris suffered a heart attack earlier in the month.
The Celtics Team Paid Tribute
After Chris’s family’s official statement, the Celtics paid tribute to the late NBA player by sharing a Twitter thread detailing his sports legacy and the team’s history.
More From The Celtics Team
The posts revealed Chris was affectionately known by his teammates as “Doc” and had a career that spanned over a decade of Celtics basketball. They also sent their deepest sympathies to the Ford family and their friends.
Inside Chris’s Journey To Stardom
Before Chris became a part of the Celtics team personnel that earned championship rings as a coach and a player, he began his journey to stardom in the basketball world as a guard for the Detroit Pistons in 1972.
Chris Joins The Boston Celtics
For the next seven seasons, Chris played professional basketball with Detroit until he was traded to the Celtics during the 1978-1979 season.
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Chris Makes History
On October 12, 1979, Chris made a name for himself after he scored the first three-point shot in NBA history in the first quarter of the Celtics’ win over the Houston Rockets.
Details Of His Achievements
That same season, Chris was voted the team’s MVP, and two years later, he won an NBA World Championship with the Boston Celtics team. Eventually, Chris retired from playing and delved into coaching.
Chris Won Championships As A Coach
The icon worked as an assistant coach with the Celtics and excelled with the team. He became a force to reckon with, winning two more NBA titles in 1984 and 1986. Then, in 1990, he became the 11th head coach of the team.
Chris Led His Former Teammates To Success
As a head coach, the former basketball player was outstanding. He often led his former teammates Robert Parrish, Larry Bird, and Kevin McHale to the playoffs.
Chris Coached Some Big Names
Besides taking them to the playoffs, Chris coached Larry, the legendary Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, Isiah Thomas, and Patrick Ewing in the 1991 All-star game.
Chris’s Legacy Will Live On
Chris was indeed one of the greatest and will always be remembered for his achievements with the Celtics team. Larry proved this when he described Chris as an important part of the Celtics organization.
Larry Remembers Chris’s Impact
In a statement, Larry admitted Chris played a huge role in their success as a teammate, coach, and friend. He also sent his condolences to the Ford Family. May Chris’s soul rest in peace.
