NBA legend Paul Silas passed away at the age of 79 / News - Basketnews.com

Paul Silas became a three-time NBA champion throughout his NBA playing career, and later became a coach in the league.

Credit: AP - Scanpix Credit AP - Scanpix

Boston Celtics legend and College Basketball Hall of Famer Paul Silas passed away.

First reported by Boston Globe journalist Bob Ryan, the news became official Saturday afternoon.

Silas became a three-time NBA champion and a two-time All-Star throughout his NBA career where he played for five teams - Atlanta Hawks, Phoenix Suns, Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets, and Seattle SuperSonics.

After ending his career as a player, he started his path as a coach in the league, first as an assistant coach and then as a head coach. In more than 30 years, he coached Charlotte Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers, and New Orleans Pelicans.

His no. 35 jersey was retired by NCAA's Creighton Bluejays.

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