Bob Pettit, NBA Legend and First MVP, Dies at 93

A Basketball Pioneer

Bob Pettit, the celebrated basketball icon who became the first player to win the NBA Most Valuable Player award, died on September 23, 2026, in Metairie, Louisiana. He was 93 years old at the time of his passing. His death was confirmed by his alma mater, Louisiana State University, though no specific cause was provided.

Early Life and Development

Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Pettit was the son of a law enforcement officer who served as the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff. He was not an immediate basketball prodigy, as he did not secure a spot on the Baton Rouge High School varsity team until his junior year. Despite this late start, his dedication to the sport eventually led him to become an All-American player at Louisiana State University.

Career and Accomplishments

Pettit spent his entire 11-year professional career with the Milwaukee and St. Louis Hawks, where he established himself as a revolutionary power forward. According to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, his lean and graceful build allowed him to become one of the first big men to play effectively while facing the basket. He earned an All-Star selection in every season of his career and led the St. Louis Hawks to an NBA championship victory over the Boston Celtics in 1958.

Awards and Legacy

Beyond his championship success, Pettit was a two-time NBA MVP, winning the inaugural award in 1956 and again in 1959. He retired as the league's all-time leading scorer with 20,880 points and maintained career averages of 26.4 points and 16.2 rebounds per game. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1970, his legacy is preserved by his retired No. 9 jersey at the State Farm Arena and a statue erected in his honor.

Life After Basketball

Following his retirement from professional play after the 1964-65 season, Pettit returned to his native Baton Rouge. He transitioned into a career in banking and financial consulting, maintaining a quiet life away from the court. In his later years, he remained a familiar face to fans as a frequent attendee at Louisiana State University and New Orleans Pelicans games.