Remembering “Slick” Leonard
By TYLER SMITH (@TylerSmith_ISL)
ISL Editor
INDIANAPOLIS — For the last seven years, I’ve been blessed to write for Indy Sports Legends. When I think of actual legends of Indiana sports, Bobby “Slick” Leonard is at the very top of the list.
Slick Leonard passed away on Tuesday at the age of 88 years old. Since the moment the news broke, there has been an outpouring of tributes given by people all over the world in honor of Slick. Here are some of the notable posts:
Mark Boyle– “There are no words to adequately express the impact Slick has had on me over the years. As heartbroken as we all are today, my love, respect, and admiration for this man make me smile. I’m forever grateful to you, my friend.”
Reggie Miller– “This one hurts, Pacer Nation. So very saddened by the loss of a beloved human being in Bobby Slick Leonard. We all know how great of a coach you were in guiding the ABA Pacers to 3 championships, but you were a much better friend. I will cherish every single one of our conversations and pass them on to my kids.”
Larry Bird– “To me, Slick was a real Hoosier. He loved the city and everyone that lives there. He was a great mentor to me and a friend that everyone should have. Slick will be greatly missed and remembered with respect and admiration forever.”
Tom Crean– “Coach Slick Leonard was a true State of Indiana, @Pacers , @IndianaMBB and @NBA treasure. He treated me and our family with great respect and kindness. We bonded over talks of coaching and @DienerTravis whenever we spoke. Thanks to his family for sharing him with all of us.”
Jerry West– “I was very privileged to share my early professional years with Bob. He was so helpful and encouraging to me and I will always remember how kind and generous he was to me. He was one of the most competitive players that I was ever associated with. I was every thrilled for his success as a coach. His passing saddens me, he will be missed all associates across the NBA, particularly those who played and worked with him personally. My deepest condolences to his family and to the people of Indiana who so embraced him.”
Do yourself a favor, and search “Slick Leonard” on Twitter tonight to see the incredible amount of posts from fans, loved ones, and people from around the Pacer, Hoosier, and basketball communities. The Pacers honored Slick before Tuesday night’s game against the Clippers:
As many have noted, the Pacers may not even still be in Indiana if it wasn’t for Slick Leonard. What he has done for this franchise, and the entire city of Indianapolis, cannot be put into words. His impact and legacy will live on, even to those who never knew him. Thank you Slick. We will never forget you. Boom Baby.
