Bob Leonard Hall Of Fame NBA

Bob “Slick” Leonard was a player, coach, and broadcaster whose influence shaped Indiana basketball for decades. A standout guard at Indiana University, Leonard led the Hoosiers to the 1953 NCAA championship. Drafted by the Minneapolis Lakers, he enjoyed a seven-season NBA career before transitioning to coaching. Leonard became best known for guiding the Indiana Pacers to three ABA championships (1970, 1972, 1973), cementing their status as a dynasty.

Renowned for his fiery passion and in-game “Boom, Baby!” calls, he later served as the Pacers’ radio analyst for over 30 years. Leonard’s career spanned nearly every role in the sport, earning him induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014. His leadership, charisma, and unwavering connection to fans made him one of Indiana’s most beloved basketball figures.

Leonard's Awards and Records:

• 3× ABA Champion (1970, 1972, 1973)
• ABA All-Time Team (Coach)
• Indiana University NCAA Champion (1953)
• Consensus second-team All-American (1954)
• Naismith Hall of Fame Inductee (2014)
• Over 30 years as Pacers broadcaster

Notable Achivements:

• Most wins by a head coach in Indiana Pacers history (529 total victories)
• Only coach to win three ABA championships with the same team
• Guided the Pacers to five ABA Finals appearances
• Played in the 1954 NCAA Championship Game with Indiana University
• Served as both player and coach in professional basketball, a rare achievement in the sport

NBA Teams:

As a player:
Minneapolis / Los Angeles Lakers (1956–1961)
Chicago Packers / Zephyrs (1961–1963)
As a coach:
Chicago Zephyrs / Baltimore Bullets (1962–1964)
Indiana Pacers (1968–1980)

NBA Draft:
1954: 2nd round, 10th overall pick
Baltimore Bullets

Number Worn:
21

Career Stats:

As Player
Seasons:
7 (1956–1963)
Points:
4,204 (9.9 ppg)
Rebounds:
1,217 (2.9 rpg)
Assists:
1,427 (3.3 apg)

As Coach
Seasons:
14 (1968–1980)
Record:
573–534
ABA Championships:
3 (1970, 1972, 1973)