Willis Reed was an American professional basketball player, known for his time with the New York Knicks in the NBA. Born on June 25, 1942, in Hico, Louisiana, he played as a center and was recognized for his scoring ability and leadership on the court. Reed was a two-time NBA Champion and was named the NBA Finals MVP in both 1970 and 1973. Reed was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1982. He was also a seven-time NBA All-Star and earned the NBA Most Valuable Player award in 1970. After retiring as a player, Reed served as a coach and executive in the basketball community.