Chris Ford, The Celtics Coach Died At The Age Of 74

The 74-year-old Chris Ford, the Celtics’ coach, passed away on Wednesday. He was the first three-point shooter in the NBA.

In 1981, Ford became part of the biggest championship and was the team’s eleventh coach. 

In 1978, Ford was traded to the Boston Celtics from Detroit. He averaged 15.1 points per game for the Celtics in 1978–79.

The Celtics won the Atlantic Division titles in 1991 and 1992 after he took over as head coach.

He had experience with several other teams as he coached the Clippers, 76ers, and Bucks before completing his career in the NBA.

Statements On Chris Ford’s Demise

By His Family:

“The Ford family is sad to announce the passing of Chris on January 17, 2023. 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. He always showed humility and respect for all those that were fortunate enough to be a part of his life.”

The Boston Celtics Statement:

“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. He was a member of three NBA World Championship Boston Celtics teams, one as a key player on the 1981 Champions, and subsequently as an assistant coach for the 1984 and 1986 champs. Ford went on to become the team’s eleventh head coach, leading his former teammates Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish to multiple playoff appearances in the trio’s final days together. ‘Doc,’ as he was affectionately known by his teammates, was a fundamentally versatile all-around guard. He was voted the team’s MVP in his first season with the Celtics, and he is famously credited with scoring the NBA’s first three-point basket. Ford joined an elite group of Celtics’ personnel (Bill Russell, Tom Heinsohn, and K.C. Jones) who have earned championship rings as both a player and coach with the organization. The Boston Celtics send their deepest sympathies to the Ford family and their many friends.”

Larry Joe Bird Also Shared His Condolences To The Family:

“Chris was such an important part of our success, as a teammate, Coach, and friend. My thoughts and condolences are with the Ford family.”

Chris Ford will be remembered and missed by all. His achievements and long career in the NBA will keep him in the hearts of his fans, family, and the Celtics.

Read Also: Curry Shows His Gratitude Towards Biden For Bringing Brittney Griner Home