Willis Reed Passes Away At 80

BYAlexander ColePublished on March 21, 2023723 Views

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 16, 1973: Willis Reed, center of the New York Knicks, takes a brief pause to look at the scoreboard during an NBA basketball game against the Buffalo Braves in Madison Square Garden on October 16, 1973 in New York. Reed scored 6 points during the game as the New York Knicks defeated the Buffalo Braves, 117-91. (Photo by Ross Lewis/Getty Images)

Willis Reed was a legend who won helped the Knicks win two NBA titles.

If you are a New York Knicks fan, you know just how legendary Willis Reed was. Overall, he is someone who has represented the Knicks organization with tremendous class. Moreover, he was on the team during their most prosperous years. In 1970 and 1973, he helped the team win the NBA championship. During the first of these title runs, Reed won both league MVP and Finals MVP. Sadly, the NBA legend passed away today at the age of 80. Following this news, the New York Knicks released a statement on the matter.

"The Knicks organization is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Captain, Willis Reed," the statement read. "As we mourn, we will always strive to uphold the standards he left behind -- the unmatched leadership, sacrifice and work ethic that personified him as a champion among champions. His is a legacy that will live forever. We ask everyone to please respect the family's privacy during this difficult time."

Willis Reed Remembered

Former NBA player Willis Reed arrives at Tony La Russa's 3rd annual Leaders & Legends Gala benefitting the Animal Rescue Foundation at the MGM Grand Hotel/Casino on November 22, 2014 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by David Becker/Getty Images for Animal Rescue Foundation)

For those who may not know, Reed had an incredible moment in the 1970 NBA Finals that has stood the test of time. During that series, he had suffered an awful injury that many thought would be impossible to come back from. However, the legend came back in Game 7 when his team needed him the most. Reed subsequently went on to score two quick baskets, and his team took care of the rest. It was one of the defining moments of the NBA during that era, and Reed will always be remembered for his tenacity.

Overall, this is a massive loss for the NBA community. Reed is one of those incredible players who helped the league become what it is today. Additionally, if you love the Knicks, Reed is someone that should absolutely be revered in your household. Our heart goes out to his family, friends, and the NBA world during this time. RIP to a legend.

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About The Author

Alexander Cole

Alexander Cole is the current Managing Editor of HotNewHipHop. He started at HotNewHipHop back in 2018 where he began as a Sports and Sneakers writer. During this time, he has shown an expertise in Air Jordans, Yeezys, and all things that have to do with Nike. His favorite kicks are the Air Jordan 1 High OG, the Air Jordan 4, the Air Jordan 6, and the Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 in the "Beluga 2.0" colorway. Although his collection might not be the biggest, he is always looking to add new styles to it. When it comes to sports, Alex has a particular interest in the NBA and the NFL. His favorite teams are anywhere LeBron goes, and the Kansas City Chiefs. As a Montrealer, the Montreal Canadiens hold a special place in his heart, even if they haven't won the Stanley Cup in his lifetime. Alex also works for the Concordia Stingers, where he provides play-by-play and color commentary for the football, hockey, and basketball teams His favorite hip-hop artists are Kendrick Lamar, Playboi Carti, Travis Scott, and Lil Uzi Vert.