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Dave Cowens: Big Red was Tough as Nails

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Tough as Nails, balls of steel, complete player on both sides of the ball. Those are all words that epitomize Dave Cowens. For those who watched him play he became their favorite player. He was a guy who wouldn't take any crap on the floor. When an opponent would try to sell a call on Dave the next play he would show them what a real foul looked like and say,  "Now that's a foul!" 

     A player whose career went from 1970 to 1980 as well as the 82-83 season. He captured Rookie of the Year honors in 1971! In 73 he was not only the MVP of the entire league but in the All Star game! Pretty impressive if you think about the stars of that decade. He finally broke through as a Champion with the Celtics in 1974. After the celebration with fans through various neighborhoods he slept on a park bench in Boston Common. Imagine finding today's stars doing that?! 

     In 76 Big Red once again captured the world title with the Celtics. Big Red was definitely a different cat given in the 77 season he took a leave from basketball and worked as a cab driver to clear his head because he felt burnt out. Not too many athletes would ever do that which shows Big Red played to his own tune. Along his playing career he was an 8 time All Star, made All Defensive First team in 76 as well as second teams in 75 and 80. 

     Dave was named to the NBA'S 50th anniversary team! His number 18 hangs in Boston Garden! He also had his number retired at FSU! Dave is also a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame! Dave's toughness was never more evident when he had absolutely no fear when going up against players like Lew Alcinder! Imagine if Dave had held on one more year with the Celtics and been a part of the 81 title. That would have been amazing. 

     Not only was Dave an amazing player but he was damn good coach as well! His coaching career spanned from 1978 to 2009 with stops in some form or fashion with the Celtics, Spurs, Hornets, Warriors, Sky, Pistons.. Quite an amazing career as both player and coach when you think about it. 

     Big Red will always hold a special part in Boston Celtics fans hearts given how hard he played and how damn good he was! He was willing to dive on any loose ball and willing to get his hands dirty! 

     
 

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