Short Summary
Robert Parish is a renowned former professional basketball player, celebrated for his remarkable career in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He is best known for his time with the Boston Celtics, where he played a pivotal role in securing three NBA championships. Known for his resilience and longevity, Parish holds the record for the most games played in NBA history. His contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark, earning him a place in the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Early Life & Education
Born on August 30, 1953, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Robert Parish grew up in a supportive family that encouraged his athletic pursuits. He attended Woodlawn High School, where his talent for basketball began to flourish. His performance on the high school team caught the attention of scouts, leading him to attend Centenary College of Louisiana. At Centenary, he developed his skills further, becoming a dominant force on the court. Despite NCAA sanctions that limited his exposure, Parish's talent was undeniable, setting the stage for his future professional career.
Career Highlights
Robert Parish's professional basketball career began when he was selected by the Golden State Warriors in the 1976 NBA Draft. After several productive seasons with the Warriors, he was traded to the Boston Celtics in 1980. This move proved to be pivotal, as Parish became an integral part of the Celtics' success during the 1980s. Alongside Larry Bird and Kevin McHale, he formed the legendary "Big Three," leading the team to three NBA championships in 1981, 1984, and 1986. Parish's career spanned an impressive 21 seasons, and he retired as the all-time leader in games played.
Major Achievements
- Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003 in recognition of his exceptional career.
- Won three NBA championships with the Boston Celtics in 1981, 1984, and 1986, solidifying his status as a key player on a legendary team.
- Selected as an NBA All-Star nine times, highlighting his consistent performance and impact on the game.
- Became the oldest player to win an NBA championship at age 43 with the Chicago Bulls in 1997.
Famous Quotes
- "The game is my passion, and I've been fortunate to play it for so long."
- "Winning is not an individual achievement; it’s a team effort."
Interesting Facts
- Robert Parish’s nickname, "The Chief," was inspired by the character from the movie "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest."
- He played in 1,611 regular-season NBA games, setting a record for the most games played by an NBA player.
- His jersey number 00 was retired by the Boston Celtics in honor of his contributions to the team.
Legacy / Influence
Robert Parish's legacy in basketball is marked by his exceptional durability and consistency. His ability to maintain a high level of performance over two decades set a standard for professional athletes. Parish's presence in the Boston Celtics' legendary "Big Three" of the 1980s contributed significantly to the team's success and left a lasting imprint on the franchise's history. His record for games played remains a testament to his dedication and perseverance.
FAQ
Q: Why is Robert Parish famous?
A: He is famous for his exceptional basketball career, particularly with the Boston Celtics, where he won three NBA championships.
Q: What nickname is Robert Parish known by?
A: He is known by the nickname "The Chief."
Q: How many NBA games did Robert Parish play?
A: He played a record 1,611 regular-season NBA games.
Q: Is Robert Parish in the Basketball Hall of Fame?
A: Yes, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003.
