Basketball Legend Passes Away!

Pulse Sports Team 22:59 - 24 September 2026

The legendary Bob Petit died on Wednesday at the age of 93.

The legendary Petit rose to prominence in the 1950s, earning "All-American" honors while playing for LSU. The university promptly retired his No. 50 jersey, a fitting tribute considering he averaged 27.4 points and 14.4 rebounds per game for the Tigers.

After being selected as the second overall pick in the 1954 NBA Draft, Petit went on to an incredible career with the Milwaukee/St. Louis Hawks, earning 11 All-Star selections. He led the Hawks to an NBA championship in 1958 and was named the All-Star Game MVP four times.

The Petit family confirmed that Bob passed away peacefully on Wednesday in Metairie.

"Dad passed away very peacefully at his home in Metairie on Wednesday, September 23rd," the Petit family announced. "He was the most wonderful father. The kindest, most humble, and gentle soul. We are blessed to have had him in our lives and he will be dearly missed."

Soon after the news of Petit's passing was confirmed, numerous NBA fans and media representatives paid tribute to him.

"The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame mourns the passing of Bob Petit, an elegant and skilled big man who revolutionized the forward position during his career. An 11-time NBA All-Star and two-time MVP, he retired as the NBA's all-time leading scorer and left an indelible mark. He led the St. Louis Hawks to the 1958 NBA title, defeating the Boston Celtics. The Basketball Hall of Fame salutes this true giant of the game." - The Hall of Fame