Former NBA cager and a beloved Boston Celtics ex-team member Chris Ford has passed away at age 71, multiple reports have confirmed on Wednesday.
Ford, who was credited for draining the league’s first-three pointer back in 1979, was showered by plenty of tributes, most especially from the Celtics franchise.
“Chris was beloved by his family, friends and teammates. He had a great love for his family, the city of Boston, the fans and the entire Celtics family,” the family statement said, via Associated Press. “He always showed humility and respect for all those that were fortunate enough to be a part of his life.”
Ford was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the second round of the 1972 NBA Draft. After six seasons, he transferred to Beantown and had a remarkable stint for the Cs.
He was a member of the organization’s 1981 championship team. Upon his retirement in 1982, he then went on to become an assistant for them from 1983 to 1990 – winning two more titles in 1984 and 1986.
Ford then proceeded to handle the Celtics as their main coach for five seasons (1990-1995) and went on to guide other NBA teams like the Milwaukee Bucks (1996-1998), L.A. Clippers (1999-2000), and Philadelphia 76ers (2004).
As a player and coach, Chris Ford’s career spanned over a decade of Celtics basketball, and he made his mark every step of the way,” the Celtics said in a statement. “‘Doc,’ as he was affectionately known by his teammates, was a fundamentally versatile all-around guard. … The Boston Celtics sends their deepest sympathies to the Ford family and their many friends.”
