Chris Ford, first player to hit a 3-pointer in the NBA, dies at 74

 Chris Ford (R) during his stint as Los Angeles Clippers’ head coach. AFP PHOTO Vince BUCCI

Former Boston Celtics head coach Chris Ford died Tuesday at age 74.

After seven seasons and two NBA championships as an assistant coach with Boston, Ford held the reins from 1990-95 and guided the Celtics to four playoff berths in five seasons.

As a 6-foot-5 shooting guard, Ford played 10 seasons with the Detroit Pistons (1972-78) and Celtics (1978-82). He made the first 3-point field goal in NBA history on Oct. 12, 1979 and won an NBA title with Boston in 1981.

The Celtics and the Ford family announced his passing on Wednesday.

“The Ford family is sad to announce the passing of Chris on January 17, 2023. Chris was beloved by his family, friends, and teammates. He had a great love for his family, the city of Boston, the fans, and the entire Celtics family. He always showed humility and respect for all those that were fortunate enough to be a part of his life.”

As a player and coach, Chris Ford’s career spanned over a decade of Celtics basketball, and he made his mark every step of the way. (1/5) pic.twitter.com/1A6TRZUe4p

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) January 18, 2023

Affectionately known as “Doc” by teammates, Ford averaged 9.2 points, 3.4 assists, 3.0 rebounds and 1.6 steals in 794 career games.

He compiled a coaching record of 323-376 for the Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks (1996-98), Los Angeles Clippers (1998-2000) and Philadelphia 76ers (2003-04).

Born in Atlantic City, N.J., Ford was a prep star at Holy Spirit in Absecon, N.J., before playing his college basketball at Villanova from 1969-72. His Wildcats lost to UCLA in the 1971 national championship game.

The Pistons drafted him in the second round (17th overall) in 1972.

The NBA instituted the 3-point line for the 1979-80 season. Ford knocked down his historic 3-pointer (on his only attempt) in Boston’s season-opening 114-107 win against the visiting Houston Rockets.

Field Level Media