NBA's Greatest Players in History: Willis Reed

• 7-time NBA All-Star selection
• 2-time NBA champion (1970, 1973)
• First player to win NBA MVP, All-Star MVP, and Finals MVP in the same season (1970)
• Member of the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team

Willis Reed was the heart and soul of the New York Knicks' championship teams in the early 1970s, known for his leadership, toughness, and clutch performances.

Overview

Willis Reed's impact on basketball history extends far beyond his iconic moment in Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals. As the cornerstone of the New York Knicks' championship teams, Reed embodied the grit, determination, and team-first mentality that defined an era of NBA basketball. His combination of skill, leadership, and toughness made him one of the most respected players of his generation.

Career snapshot

Reed's NBA journey began when the New York Knicks selected him with the 8th pick in the 1964 NBA Draft. He immediately made his presence felt, winning Rookie of the Year honours and earning the first of seven consecutive All-Star selections. Reed's move to centre in 1968 coincided with the Knicks' rise to championship contention, culminating in NBA titles in 1970 and 1973.

Playing style

At 6'9", Reed was considered undersized for a centre in his era, but he more than made up for it with his versatility and tenacity. He possessed a rare combination of interior toughness and perimeter shooting ability that made him a nightmare for opposing defences. Reed's jump shot was one of the most reliable among big men of his time, allowing him to space the floor and open up opportunities for his teammates.

Defensively, Reed was a formidable presence in the paint, using his strength and positioning to challenge shots and control the boards. His ability to defend larger centres while also stepping out to guard more mobile players made him an invaluable asset to the Knicks' defensive schemes.

Why Willis Reed is on our list

Willis Reed's place among the most dominant players in NBA history is secured by his combination of individual excellence and team success. His 1970 season, in which he became the first player to win the regular season MVP, All-Star Game MVP, and Finals MVP awards, stands as one of the greatest individual campaigns in league history.

Beyond his statistical achievements, Reed's leadership and clutch performances in crucial moments elevate his legacy. His gutsy performance in Game 7 of the 1970 Finals, playing through a severe thigh injury to inspire his team to victory, is etched in basketball lore as one of the sport's most iconic moments.

Five Fast Facts

• Reed was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History in 1996.

• He is one of only seven players to win an NBA MVP award and two Finals MVP awards.

• Reed's number 19 was the first jersey retired by the New York Knicks.

• He coached both the Knicks and the New Jersey Nets after his playing career.

• Reed was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1982.

Career Highlights Timeline

1964: Drafted 8th overall by the New York Knicks, wins Rookie of the Year

1965: Makes first All-Star appearance

1970: Wins NBA MVP, All-Star MVP, and Finals MVP; leads Knicks to first championship

1972: Named to All-NBA First Team for the fifth time

1973: Wins second NBA championship and Finals MVP

1974: Retires from NBA after 10 seasons

1976: New York Knicks retire Reed's number 19

1982: Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

Willis Reed's impact on the game of basketball extends far beyond his statistical achievements. His leadership, toughness, and clutch performances in the biggest moments solidified his place as one of the most dominant and respected players in NBA history.

The image of Reed limping onto the court for Game 7 of the 1970 Finals remains one of the most enduring in sports history, symbolising the heart and determination that defined his career and the era of basketball he helped shape.

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