Paul Silas

Three-time NBA champion across three different franchises — the premier defensive rebounder of the 1970s.

Paul Theron Silas was born in Prescott, Arizona in 1943. St. Louis Hawks selected him in the second round of the 1964 NBA Draft from Creighton University. His 16-season career produced 9.4 points and 9.9 rebounds per game — a rebounding average that exceeds many more celebrated players. He won three NBA championships: two with the Boston Celtics (1974, 1976) and one with the Seattle SuperSonics (1979). He averaged 11.5 rebounds per game for several seasons — placing him among the elite rebounders of an era that included Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bob McAdoo and Dave Cowens. His scoring average understates his value — he was prized for defence, rebounding, leadership and the way he made teammates better. He was selected to two All-Star games. He later became a successful NBA head coach — leading the Charlotte Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers and New Orleans Hornets at various points. His son Stephen Silas also became an NBA head coach. His three championships across three different franchises — a remarkable achievement — reflect a player consistently sought by championship-calibre teams.

Physical defender and relentless rebounder with strong fundamentals

One of the greatest rebounders in NBA history and successful coach

• NBA Champion 3x (1974,1976,1979)
• All-Star 2x
• Rebounding specialist