"Do your best when no one is looking."
–Bob Cousy
Our CEO, Kassia Davis, recently had the opportunity to sit down with basketball legend Bob Cousy at his home in Worcester, MA. They discussed his game-changing Celtics days, the artistry behind his moves, the passion that fueled his career, and the unforgettable moments that solidified his legacy.
Known as "The Houdini of The Hardwood," Bob Cousy is a six-time NBA Champion with the Boston Celtics, a 1947 NCAA Champion with Holy Cross, the 1957 NBA MVP, the founder of the National Basketball Players Association, and a Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient.
Among his many accomplishments, Bob Cousy signed the NBA's first-ever shoe endorsement with P.F. Flyers in 1958. His signature shoe, The All-American Hi Bob Cousy, has been a staple in our lineup ever since.
Today, as Bob Cousy turns 96, we honor this iconic player and his incredible legacy by introducing The Vintage Basketball Collection. This collection features two new colorways of The All-American – Black/Crimson and Antique White/Crimson. These colorways pay homage to the rich history and artistry of basketball, reflecting Cousy's creativity and thoughtfulness both on and off the court. This collection pays tribute to the sport we love and the legend who shaped it.
Kassia and "The Cooz" explored Cousy's remarkable achievements, including his trailblazing role in securing the first NBA shoe endorsement with P.F. Flyers, and his insightful perspectives on the current state of basketball. Check out their Q&A conversation below.
Bob Cousy: Hi there. My name is Bob Cousy, and many years ago, I was known as the Houdini of the Hardwood. I was a pretty good basketball player, winning six NBA championships with the Boston Celtics.
Kassia Davis: Bob, you played for over a dozen seasons, winning six NBA championships with the Boston Celtics. What are you most proud of achieving in your basketball journey, and what's one of your greatest memories from your time at Holy Cross?
Bob Cousy: Well, winning championships is what stands out the most. Being the captain of a team that won eleven championships in thirteen years is something I'm very proud of. As for Holy Cross, in my first year there, we won the NCAA championship, which was an incredible experience.
Kassia Davis: Throughout your career, you achieved immense success. What was the biggest lesson you learned from your experiences on the court?
Bob Cousy: I learned the importance of resilience and not giving up. Although I didn't make my high school team at first, I kept at it because I loved the game. This persistence paid off, leading to a college scholarship and a successful career.
Kassia Davis: Your fast-breaking, creative ball handling accelerated the game of basketball. How have these skills evolved since then?
Bob Cousy: I was known for my unorthodox plays, but I never did it just to show off. It always had a purpose to help my team win. Today, the game has evolved with players having extraordinary athleticism, but the core skills and creativity are still crucial.
Kassia Davis: How has the game changed since your playing days, and what do you think of the current state of basketball?
Bob Cousy: The game has exploded in popularity and become a worldwide sport. The athleticism of today's players is incredible, and the fan base is much larger. The NBA's impact globally is something I could never have imagined during my playing days.
Kassia Davis: What players today remind you of the kind of player you were?
Bob Cousy: Stephen Curry comes close. He doesn't do much unorthodox stuff, but his game is solid, and he has tremendous talent.
Kassia Davis: Your number was 14. What did that mean to you?
Bob Cousy: Honestly, I don't remember how I chose it. My number in college was 17. Numbers were just identifiers for me; I didn't attach much emotional significance to them.
Kassia Davis: As you reflect on your life, wins, losses, and legacy, what do you want to be known for most?
Bob Cousy: I'd like to be remembered for doing my very best, even when no one was watching. It’s a mantra I followed throughout my life and career.
Kassia Davis: You helped make basketball the sport today by creating the first union for players to get pensions and health benefits. Do you think the salaries of NBA players today continue because of your impact?
Bob Cousy: Yes, starting the NBA Players Association in 1954 was significant. We needed representation, and I'm proud of helping set the table for better conditions and benefits for players.
Kassia Davis: Who were the most instrumental people in your life and career?
Bob Cousy: I was instrumental in my success because of a professor in high school who encouraged me to pursue college and my basketball coaches, who saw potential in me. My wife of 63 years and my daughters have also been my biggest supporters.
Kassia Davis: P.F. Flyers’ brand mantra is "Run faster. Jump higher. Fly free." What does it mean to you to fly free?
Bob Cousy: Flying free means living life on my terms, expressing myself freely, and making my own choices. It has allowed me to be the person I am today, both on and off the court.
