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New York Knicks legend Willis Reed has passed away at the age of 80. The team confimed the news in a statement on Tuesday.
Reed was one of the most talented centers in NBA history and became a legendary part of the Knicks organization. Reed played 10 seasons with the Knicks from 1964-1974. He was a seven-time NBA All-Star and made five All-NBA teams during his tenure with the organization.
"The Knicks organization is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Captain, Willis Reed," the Knicks' statement read. "As we mourn, we will always strive to uphold the standard he left behind - the unmatched leadership, sacrifice and work ethic that personified him as a champion among champions."
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Looking back at the NBA career of New York Knicks Legend Willis Reed
It's difficult to think about the New York Knicks without Willis Reed's name coming to mind.
Reed was a physical center who played with a high motor on both sides of the floor. He won the NBA MVP award during the 1969-70 season. He averaged 21.7 points on 50.7% shooting, 13.9 rebounds and 2.0 assists in 81 games.
One of Reed's most legendary moments took place during Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals against the LA Lakers. Reed missed the previous game with a thigh injury. But moments before tip-off of Game 7, he shocked the home crowd as he trotted out to the court during warmups.
Clearly bothered by the injury, Reed still provided the Knicks with a boost of energy. He hit his first two field goal attempts to send the Madison Square Garden crowd into a frenzy. He was named the NBA Finals MVP after leading the Knicks to their first NBA championship in franchise history. The Knicks secured their second NBA title just two seasons later. Reed won the NBA Finals MVP once again.
Reed only played for the New York Knicks during his NBA career. He averaged 18.7 points and 12.9 rebounds in 650 regular season games. Reed was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1982. He also won the 1964-65 NBA Rookie of the Year award and was named to the 1969-70 All-Defensive team.
