Bob Pettit, NBA’s First MVP and St. Louis Hawks Legend, Dies at 93
Bob Pettit, the NBA's first Most Valuable Player and a star for the St. Louis Hawks, has died at the age of 93. Pettit was an 11-time All-Star who led the Hawks to their only NBA championship in 1958.
Great Falls, MT, September 25, 2026 —
Bob Pettit, a foundational figure in National Basketball Association history and the league’s inaugural Most Valuable Player, has passed away at the age of 93. Pettit was a celebrated star for the St. Louis Hawks during his illustrious career.
Pettit’s achievements in the NBA included being selected as an 11-time All-Star, a testament to his consistent excellence on the court. His career culminated in leading the St. Louis Hawks to their sole NBA championship in 1958, a historic moment for the franchise.
Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Pettit played college basketball at Louisiana State University before being drafted by the Milwaukee Hawks (later the St. Louis Hawks) in 1954. He quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier talents, known for his scoring ability, rebounding, and all-around game.
His MVP award, received in the 1955-56 season, marked the first time the honor was bestowed upon a player in the NBA. He would go on to win a second MVP award in the 1958-59 season, making him one of the early dominant forces in the league. Throughout his career, Pettit averaged 26.4 points and 16.2 rebounds per game. His jersey number 9 was retired by the Atlanta Hawks (the franchise’s successor to the St. Louis Hawks), honoring his significant contributions.
The cause of death was not immediately provided.
Story summarized from the original created by AP via Scripps News Group on www.krtv.com, see more information here.
