Bob Ferry, who led the Washington Bullets to their 1978 title, was 84 years old. He had been a successful 17-year general manager.
Ferry helmed the Bullets from 1973-1990, when the team reached the playoffs 13 times, including three Finals appearances. In the 31 seasons Ferry was in that position, the Wizards have made it to the playoffs only 10 times and have not made it to the Finals.
Ferry is one the four GMs of league history, with 700 wins and 13 playoff appearances. Ferry also won a championship and two Executives of the Year awards. Ferry was awarded these awards in 1979 and 1982. Other GMs include Jerry West, Jerry Buford and Jerry Krause.
Wes Unseld Jr., Wizards coach, said Wednesday that Bob and his family were dear to his parents and the Unseld family. He added, "Bob, his family, and the Wizards organization are very dear to my parents and the Unseld family. We just want to wish them the best and keep them in our prayers and thoughts." "I understand how difficult this time can be. "I just wanted to let them know that we are thinking of them, we care about them, and that we will be there for their needs."
Ferry was the Boston Celtics' second general manager. He hired two Black head coaches, K.C. Jones in 1973, and Wes Unseld Sr. 1988. He was a scout with several NBA teams for the next 25-years after he had left the Bullets.
Ferry, who stood 6'8 inches tall, was the seventh overall pick in 1959's draft. Ferry played in 10 seasons with the St. Louis Hawks (Detroit Pistons) and Baltimore Bullets in the NBA, scoring 9.1 points per game and grabbing 5.3 rebounds over 634 games.
His son Danny was a star at Duke where he won the national title and was named national player of year. He played in 13 NBA seasons, won titles as both a player and executive with the San Antonio Spurs. Later, he was the general manager for the Atlanta Hawks and Cleveland Cavaliers.
This report was contributed by Tim Bontemps, ESPN.
