Former NBA player and coach Paul Silas dies at 79

Longtime NBA player and coach Paul Silas has died, tweets Bob Ryan of The Boston Globe.

The 79-year-old was a rugged rebounder and defender during his 16 NBA seasons. He was a two-time All-Star, a five-time All-Defensive selection and was part of three title-winning teams: the Celtics in 1974 and 1976 and the Super Sonics in 1979.

After leading the NCAA in rebounding at Creighton, Silas was a second-round pick by the St. Louis Hawks in 1964. He was traded to the Suns in 1969 and the Celtics in 1972 before finishing his career with the Nuggets and Sonics. Silas appeared in 1,254 career games, averaging 9.4 points and 9.9 rebounds per night.

He moved into coaching after his playing career ended, starting as head coach of the San Diego Clippers from 1980-83 and later serving in the same role with the Hornets, Cavaliers and Bobcats before his coaching career ended in 2012. Silas is the father of Rockets head coach Stephen Silas.

We at Hoops Rumors send our condolences to Silas’ family and friends.