Pettit's 54 Point Performance (1962)
From Mr. Sonic to Sarge: A career of service and leadership.
Nathaniel McMillan (born August 3, 1964) is an American basketball coach and former player who serves as an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association (NBA).
- Player
- Bob Pettit
- Team
- St. Louis Hawks
- Opponent
- New York Knicks
- Points Scored
- 54
- Location
- Madison Square Garden, New York City
Lore & Background
McMillan spent his entire 12-year NBA playing career with the Seattle SuperSonics, earning the nickname 'Mr. Sonic' for his 19 years of service to the team. His number 10 jersey was retired by the SuperSonics. He also earned the nickname 'Sarge' for his hard-nosed coaching style with the Portland Trail Blazers.
In Their Own Story
The arena hummed with electric anticipation as Bob Pettit stepped onto the hardwood, his jersey number 21 gleaming under the harsh lights. With the clock ticking down in the fourth quarter, he caught a pass near the elbow, pivoted smoothly against two defenders, and rose for his signature jump shot. The ball arced perfectly through the air, swishing through the net to bring his total closer to an impossible number. Every time he touched the ball, the crowd roared, knowing they were witnessing history being written by one of basketball's greatest giants.
Reader's Guide
McMillan coached the Seattle SuperSonics from 2000 to 2005, the Portland Trail Blazers from 2005 to 2012, and the Indiana Pacers from 2016 to 2020. He served as an assistant coach for the Atlanta Hawks in 2021 before becoming head coach from 2021 to 2023. He joined the Los Angeles Lakers as an assistant coach in 2024.
Did You Know?
- McMillan shares the NBA rookie record for assists in a single game with 25.
- He led the NBA in steals per game for the 1993–94 season.
- He was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team for the 1993–94 and 1994–95 seasons.
- McMillan helped the SuperSonics reach the NBA Finals in the 1995–96 season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Bob Pettit record his 54-point game?
Bob Pettit achieved this milestone in 1962 while playing for the St. Louis Hawks against the New York Knicks. This date marks one of the most significant statistical nights in franchise history before the move to Atlanta.
Who was the opponent during this performance?
The St. Louis Hawks faced off against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Pettit dominated the court with raw physical power to deliver one of the highest individual scoring totals ever recorded by the team.
Was this game played when the team was already in Atlanta?
No, this achievement occurred while the franchise was still known as the St. Louis Hawks prior to their relocation to Georgia. Fans today celebrate it as part of the organization's legacy despite the different city location at the time.
Why is this specific game considered iconic for fans?
This performance showcased Pettit's peak dominance during an era before the three-point line existed, highlighting his unique scoring ability. It stands as a testament to his legacy and remains one of the most memorable offensive outbursts in NBA history.
Where exactly did Pettit score these 54 points?
The game took place at Madison Square Garden, which served as the home court for the opposing Knicks that night. Playing on such a hostile road floor made his statistical dominance even more impressive to observers of that time.
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