Bob Pettit, the league's first MVP, turned 87 years old a couple of weeks ago. Bob Cousy is 91, wintering in Florida and trying to keep moving, fretting that soon his legs will fail him.

“The top forwards at that time were Elgin and Bob Pettit,” Goodrich continued. “Pettit was old-school, 6-foot-9. A great, great player, but he was old-school. A big guy in and around the basket.

Legendary sportswriter Bob Ryan discussed why he views Elgin Baylor as the first to become the NBA’s greatest individual performer.

Bob Pettit, left, of the St. Louis Hawks, and rookie Elgin Baylor of the Minneapolis Lakers, hold the cup they won the night before as they were named co-winners of the ninth annual East-West All ...

Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlin, Oscar Robertson, Jerry West, Elgin Baylor. These guys were wonderful basketball players. They could play anytime, anywhere, and still be a superstar today.

Q&A: Bob Pettit, the league's first-ever MVP Bob Pettit reflects on his playing days and role as a 75th Anniversary Team ambassador.

Crossover: Celebrating Greatness, w/ Bob Pettit, Elvin Hayes & Rick Barry Three NBA legends join the show to discuss their era vs. today's game and more.

bob ryan Elgin Baylor was the most influential basketball player of the past 60 years By Bob Ryan Globe correspondent,Updated March 23, 2021, 2:12 p.m.