On this day in 1980, Kevin McHale made his debut for the Boston Celtics against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Boston won 130-103. McHale played an excellent rookie season averaging 10 points, 1.8 blocks, and 4.4 rebounds. His impressive defensive skills helped the Boston Celtics win the 1981 NBA Championship and landed him a spot on the NBA’s All-Rookie First Team. During the 1981 championship run, McHale stepped up with a huge block in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals. McHale rejected Andrew Toney’s shot and corralled the rebound with 16 seconds left to protect the Celtics’ one-point lead. McHale would go on to play for 13 seasons, helping the Boston Celtics secure a total of three championships. McHale’s accolades include an All-NBA First Team, 3x All-NBA Defensive Second Team, 3x All-NBA Defensive First Team, 2x NBA Sixth Man of the Year, and 7x NBA All-Star.
Today in Sports History: October 10
