Dave Cowens
Key Career Moment of Dave Cowens
Dave Cowens cemented his place in NBA history during the 1973 NBA Finals as the Boston Celtics faced the New York Knicks.
Dave Cowens revolutionised the centre position, dominating despite his undersized frame. His relentless hustle and versatile skillset helped revitalise the Celtics in the s. Dave Cowens .
The fiery center delivered a legendary performance in Game 7, recording 28 points and 14 rebounds to secure the championship. His relentless energy and leadership were pivotal in the Celtics' victory, earning him Finals MVP honors.
Cowens played like a man possessed-he never stopped fighting, said Celtics legend John Havlicek.This game remains one of the defining moments of his Hall of Fame career.
Unique Skill of Dave Cowens
Dave Cowens stood out for his unmatched motor and versatility.
Despite being undersized for a center at 6'9, he dominated with relentless hustle, elite rebounding, and surprising playmaking ability. His signature skill was his ability to push the ball up the court like a guard, a rare trait for big men in the 1970s. Cowens' combination of toughness and basketball IQ made him a nightmare for opponents.
Dave Cowens' Stats
- 2 NBA champion (1974, 1976)
- 1973 NBA MVP
- Career averages: 17.6 PPG, 13.6 RPG, 3.8 APG
Dave Cowens' Legacy in the NBA
Dave Cowens revolutionized the center position with his high-energy, all-around game.
A key figure in the Celtics' 1970s dynasty, he bridged the gap between the Bill Russell and Larry Bird eras.
His blue-collar approach and leadership set a standard for future NBA big men. A unique fact: Cowens once took a cab-driving job during a brief retirement in 1980, proving his down-to-earth personality.
He was the NBA Rookie of the Year and the NBA Most Valuable Player.
Today, his No. 18 jersey hangs in the rafters of TD Garden, a testament to his impact on basketball history.