Paul Silas dead at 79 – LeBron James’ first NBA coach who worked with Celtics, Knicks & Rockets cause of death unknown
LEBRON James' first NBA coach, Paul Silas, has passed away at 79.
Silas played in the NBA for 16 seasons and coached for over a decade.
Silas was a defensive stalwart in his playing career, playing for five different franchises.
The 6'7" power forward made the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 1971 and 1972.
He had over 10,000 points and 10,000 rebounds in his playing career, averaging 9.9 rebounds per game.
Immediately after his retirement, Silas started coaching in the NBA.
Initially, he became the head coach of the then-San Diego Clippers team led by superstar Bill Walton.
He coached San Diego for three years, compiling a record of 78-168.
Silas would go on to assist five different coaching staffs, including the Knicks, from 1989 to 1992, where he helped the team reach the playoffs each year.
Silas was the head coach of five different teams in the course of his career.
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Most notably, Silas was brought on as the head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers to mentor LeBron James at the beginning of his career.
He coached the team from 2003 to 2005.
Silas' son, Stephen, is the head coach of the Houston Rockets.
He is also survived by his wife, Carolyn, and two daughters, Donna and Paula.
The Rockets tweeted a statement about the passing: "... the Rockets organization are deeply saddened by the passing of Paul Silas, father of Rockets head coach Stephen Silas. Our heartfelt thoughts are with Stephen and his family during this difficult time."
Boston Globe reporter, Bob Ryan, was the first to break the story, tweeting: "I am very sad to report that the Great Paul Silas has died at age 79. To watch him play was a joy. To be his friend was an honor."
"RIP Paul Silas - beloved Celtic, beloved teammate, class act...," Bill Simmons tweeted.
Silas' cause of death has not been released to the public.