NEW YORK — The man was a Hall of Famer, a two-time NBA Finals MVP, a league MVP and a seven-time All-Star, but you are forgiven for remembering him primarily for a single iconic moment.
That is the legacy of Willis Reed Jr., who died Tuesday at age 80. Reed's death was announced by the National Basketball Retired Players Association, which confirmed it through his family.
And why not? There are worse fates than to be forever appreciated for an inspirational display of grit that lifted a franchise to its first championship and completed an unparalleled 16 months in New York sports.