NBA's Greatest Players in History: Dave Cowens

• Named NBA MVP in 1973, leading Celtics to league-best 68-14 record
• Won two NBA championships (1974, 1976) as cornerstone of Celtics dynasty
• Eight-time All-Star and member of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame
• Member of the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team

Dave Cowens revolutionised the centre position, dominating despite his undersized frame. His relentless hustle and versatile skillset helped revitalise the Celtics in the 1970s.

Overview

Dave Cowens was a force of nature on the basketball court, defying conventional wisdom about what a centre should be. Standing at just 6'9" in an era of towering big men, Cowens compensated for his lack of height with unmatched intensity, versatility, and basketball IQ. His unique blend of skills and tenacity made him a cornerstone of the Boston Celtics' success in the 1970s.

Career snapshot

Cowens' NBA journey began when he was drafted 4th overall by the Celtics in 1970. He immediately made an impact, sharing Rookie of the Year honors with Geoff Petrie in 1971. Over his 11-year career (10 with Boston, 1 with Milwaukee), Cowens established himself as one of the game's elite players. He was selected to eight All-Star teams, earned All-NBA honors three times, and was named to the All-Defensive team three times.

The pinnacle of Cowens' individual success came in 1973 when he was named NBA Most Valuable Player. That season, he led the Celtics to a league-best 68-14 record while averaging 20.5 points, 16.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. His MVP campaign solidified his status as one of the game's premier players.

Playing style

What set Cowens apart was his unique approach to the centre position. Unlike the plodding big men of his era, Cowens was a dynamic, mobile player who could impact the game in multiple ways. Offensively, he had a reliable mid-range jumper that drew opposing centres away from the basket. This opened up driving lanes for teammates and allowed Cowens to use his quickness advantage against larger defenders.

Defensively, Cowens was a menace. Despite giving up size to most centres, he used his strength, positioning, and relentless energy to outwork opponents. He was an excellent rebounder, using his anticipation and leaping ability to snag boards over taller players. Cowens' defensive versatility allowed him to guard multiple positions, making him a valuable asset in an era before widespread switching.

Perhaps most importantly, Cowens played with an unmatched intensity. He dove for loose balls, ran the floor hard in transition, and never took a possession off. This all-out style of play endeared him to fans and set the tone for his teammates.

Why Dave Cowens is on our list

Dave Cowens earns his place among the NBA's most dominant players for several reasons:

1. Transformative Impact: Cowens helped redefine the centre position, showing that skill, versatility, and hustle could overcome a size disadvantage.
2. Team Success: As the anchor of two championship teams, Cowens played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the Bill Russell and Larry Bird eras in Boston.
3. Statistical Dominance: In addition to his MVP season, Cowens put up impressive numbers throughout his career, including leading the league in defensive win shares in 1973 and 1976.
4. Clutch Performances: Cowens elevated his game in crucial moments, as evidenced by his outstanding play in the 1974 and 1976 NBA Finals.
5. Lasting Legacy: His style of play foreshadowed the evolution of the centre position, making him a player ahead of his time.

Five Fast Facts

1. Cowens is the only player in NBA history to lead his team in all five major statistical categories (points, rebounds, assists, blocks, and steals) for a season.
2. He was named MVP of the 1973 All-Star Game, showcasing his ability to shine among the league's best players.
3. Cowens briefly served as player-coach for the Celtics during the 1978-79 season.
4. He averaged a double-double for his career with 17.6 points and 13.6 rebounds per game.
5. Cowens was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1991.

Career Highlights Timeline

1970: Drafted 4th overall by the Boston Celtics

1971: Named NBA Rookie of the Year (shared with Geoff Petrie)

1973: Won NBA Most Valuable Player Award

1974: Led Celtics to NBA Championship, defeating Milwaukee Bucks

1976: Won second NBA Championship with Celtics, beating Phoenix Suns

1978: Became player-coach for the Celtics

1980: Retired from the NBA (briefly returned with Milwaukee in 1982-83)

1991: Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

Dave Cowens' impact on the NBA goes beyond his impressive statistics and accolades. He embodied the spirit of hustle and determination that defined the successful Celtics teams of the 1970s. His ability to dominate games despite his relatively small stature for a centre showcased the importance of skill, intelligence, and work ethic in basketball.

Cowens' legacy as one of the most dominant players in NBA history is secure, not just for what he accomplished on the court, but for how he changed perceptions of what a centre could be. His influence can still be seen in today's NBA, where versatile big men who can shoot, pass, and defend multiple positions are highly valued. For his transformative impact on the game and his crucial role in continuing the Celtics' winning tradition, Dave Cowens stands as one of the most influential and dominant players the NBA has ever seen.

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