The college where Bob Cousy’s career began will hold a piece of his name forever.
The College of the Holy Cross in Worcester will dedicate a court at the Hart Athletic Arena in honor of Cousy.
“Bob is the ultimate Crusader Legend and epitomizes what it means to be a person for and with others,” Holy Cross vice president for intercollegiate athletics Kit Hughes said in a statement. “His impact on our College, the Worcester community, the sport of basketball, and the world as a whole cannot be overstated.
“We are grateful for the incredible generosity shown in his honor — so that his iconic status can be further imprinted on our community for years to come.”
The court will be known as the “Bob Cousy ’50 Court.” A formal celebration will happen on Feb. 7 prior to Holy Cross’ game against Lehigh.
Cousy, who resides in Worcester, was part of the 1947 NCAA championship team as a freshman at Holy Cross. In his final three seasons he helped lead the Crusaders to two NCAA tournaments and earned All-East and All-America honors.
The Boston Celtics drafted Cousy with the No. 4 overall pick in the 1950 NBA Draft. He went on to play 13 of his 14 seasons in Boston and was named MVP for the 1956-57 season.
A 13-time NBA All-Star, Cousy made 12 All-NBA teams, including 10 First-Team nods, and led the NBA in assists in eight straight seasons.
Cousy, 97, was inducted to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1971. His No. 17 is retired by Holy Cross and his No. 14 is retired by the Celtics. He was also awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019.