Bob Pettit was drafted by Milwaukee Hawks, 1st round (2nd pick, 2nd overall), NBA Draft.
Bob Pettit
Key Career Moment of Bob Pettit
Bob Pettit cemented his place in NBA history in 1958 when he led the St. Louis Hawks to their only championship, defeating Bill Russell's Boston Celtics in a thrilling six-game series. His defining performance came in Game 6, where he scored a staggering 50 points-a Finals record at the time-to secure the title.
He was unstoppable that night, Celtics coach Red Auerbach later admitted.This victory remains one of the greatest underdog triumphs in basketball history.
Unique Skill of Bob Pettit
Bob Pettit revolutionized the power forward position with his relentless rebounding and mid-range shooting.
Unlike most big men of his era, he combined brute strength with finesse, using a deadly bank shot that defenders struggled to contest.
He played 11 seasons in the NBA, all with the Milwaukee/St.
His ability to dominate both inside and outside made him one of the NBA's first true stretch forwards.
Bob Pettit's Stats
- 2-time NBA MVP (1956, 1959)
- Career averages of 26.4 points and 16.2 rebounds per game
- 11-time All-NBA First Team selection
Bob Pettit's Legacy in the NBA
Bob Pettit's impact on basketball extends beyond his stats-he set the standard for modern power forwards.
A unique fact: He never missed an All-Star Game in his 11-year career, earning MVP honors four times. His rivalry with Bill Russell helped elevate the NBA's popularity in the 1950s and 60s. Today, Pettit is remembered as one of the game's fiercest competitors, paving the way for legends like Karl Malone and Tim Duncan.