Bob Cousy, a legendary figure in Boston Celtics history, has had a significant impact on the NBA both on and off the court. His contributions to the league include helping create the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) and serving as its first president. And despite the drastic difference in earnings between his era and the current one, Cousy has shared his pride in being part of the evolution of the NBA and the financial opportunities players enjoy today.
During an interview with Celtics Insider Chris Forsberg, Cousy expressed his satisfaction with the growth of player salaries over the years. Reflecting on his own playing career, Cousy revealed that he was once the highest-paid player in the league, earning a modest $35,000 in his final season. However, rather than harboring resentment towards today’s million-dollar contracts, Cousy takes pride in the role he played in establishing the Players Association, which ultimately paved the way for the lucrative deals players receive today.
Cousy, who turned 95 years old recently, stated, One of the things I’m most proud about is starting the Players Association because that somehow has lent itself, 60 years later, in terms of the interaction between the Players Association and the owners, to guys signing $300 million contracts for five years for playing a child’s game. His comments demonstrate the joy he feels in knowing that his efforts have contributed to the financial prosperity of current players.
Nicknamed The Houdini of the Hardwood due to his incredible ball-handling skills, Cousy won six NBA titles with the Boston Celtics before retiring at the age of 34. The NBA honored Cousy’s legacy by introducing new trophies for the league’s 75th Anniversary. The Eastern Conference Champion trophy was named in Cousy’s honor. The inaugural trophy was won by the Celtics when they defeated the Miami Heat in seven thrilling games to secure the championship. Cousy expressed his delight at the Celtics’ victory and remains a devoted supporter of his former team.
As the Celtics’ victory secured the inaugural Cousy Trophy, the legendary player expressed his gratitude, saying, It allows me to be part of the legacy of this wonderful league and sport that I was involved in, intimately, for 30 years. Cousy’s continued involvement and support show his unwavering dedication to the NBA and the Celtics. He expressed a hope that the league would continue to thrive, with his beloved team triumphing once again.
Bob Cousy’s impact on the NBA goes beyond his accomplishments on the court. Through his pivotal role in establishing the Players Association, Cousy played a significant part in shaping the financial landscape of professional basketball. The expanse from $35,000 to multi-million dollar contracts stands as a testament to his efforts, and Cousy takes pride in knowing that the seeds he planted have borne such lucrative fruit for today’s players. As the league and Celtics move forward, Cousy’s legacy remains an integral part of their storied history.
