Bob Pettit, NBA’s First Most Valuable Player, Dies at 93

Butte Bozeman, MT, September 25, 2026 — Bob Pettit, a towering figure in basketball history and the NBA’s inaugural Most Valuable Player, has died at the age of 93. His passing was announced on Thursday by his alma mater, Louisiana State University (LSU).

Pettit was widely recognized for his significant contributions to the sport, particularly during his tenure with the St. Louis Hawks. He was known for his formidable scoring ability and was a dominant force on the court throughout his career. His impact on the game was acknowledged when he was named the NBA’s first-ever MVP, an accolade that underscored his exceptional talent and influence in the league’s formative years.

Details regarding the circumstances of his death were not immediately available at the time of the announcement. The St. Louis Hawks, the team for which Pettit became a celebrated player, no longer exist in their original form, having relocated and eventually become the Atlanta Hawks. Pettit’s legacy, however, remains a significant part of NBA lore.

Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Pettit attended LSU, where he played college basketball before entering the professional league. His career with the Hawks spanned from 1954 to 1965. During this period, he led the team to an NBA championship in 1958, a victory that cemented his status as one of the game’s all-time greats. He was selected to the NBA All-Star Game in all 11 of his seasons and was a perennial All-NBA First Team selection.

The announcement from LSU marks the end of an era for basketball, remembering a player whose achievements set a high bar for future generations. Pettit’s pioneering role as the first MVP continues to be a notable milestone in the National Basketball Association’s history.

Story summarized from the original created by AP via Scripps News Group on www.kxlf.com, see more information here.