Celtics Great Paul Silas Dies at 79

Celtics Great Paul Silas Dies at 79

Boston Celtics great Paul Silas has died at 79. He won two championships with the Celts and a third with the Seattle Supersonics.

Silas was known as one of the NBA's great defensive players and toughest rebounders. He coached for 11 years in the league. 

He is the father of former Brown University player Stephen Silas — now the coach of the Houston Rockets.

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

The Boston Celtics said in a statement, “Paul Silas was a consummate team player and an integral member of the 1974 and 1976 NBA World Championship teams. Silas was a fierce competitor, with his tenacious rebounding and deft scoring ability around the hoop.

An intense and driven player on the court, the personable and gracious Silas was an ambassador for the sport of basketball and a gentleman off the court. The Boston Celtics mourn his passing and extend our sympathies to his family and loved ones.”

The Houston Rockets tweeted, "The Fertitta Family and the Rockets organization are deeply saddened by the passing of Paul Silas, father of Rockets head coach Stephen Silas. Our heartfelt thoughts are with Stephen and his family during this difficult time.”