Robert J. "Bob" Cousy
Nicknamed the "Houdini of the Hardwood" by sportswriters, Bob Cousy was best known for his razzle-dazzle, ball-handling abilities. With exceptional peripheral vision, large hands, sloping shoulders, and extremely sturdy legs, Cousy was an outstanding all-around player and is considered by many to be one of the best play makers ever. Cousy had an All-America career at Holy Cross, leading the Crusaders to three NCAA tournaments and the 1947 national championship. He joined the Celtics with coach Red Auerbach, whose upbeat style of coaching suited Cousy's remarkable play-making talents perfectly. From 1957 to 1963, with the combination of Cousy and Hall of Famer Bill Russell, the Celtics became a dynasty winning a total of six championships, five of the wins consecutive. Cousy led the NBA in assists for eight consecutive years (1953-60) and played in thirteen straight NBA All Star games. Cousy's style and reputation made the Celtics a popular draw and helped keep the NBA alive during its infancy.
