WORCESTER, MA — A bridge in Worcester has officially been renamed to honor an NBA legend.
The I-290 bridge over Southbridge Street in the city has been renamed the "Bob Cousy Pass." Cousy, who now lives in Worcester and had a star-studded career with the Boston Celtics from 1957 to 1963, was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1971.
Gov. Maura Healey joined state transportation officials, Cousy, his family and local leaders on Friday to dedicate the bridge near the College of the Holy Cross. Gov. Healey first announced in January that she would work with the city to rename the bridge after Cousy.
“We as a family feel ever so fortunate to have lived in Worcester, a community which is so generously embraced our dad and us,” said the Cousy Family. “Dad‘s love for Holy Cross and for Worcester infused all of us in the family. We are grateful that our parents to have chosen this community to make their home.”
Cousy attended Holy Cross before becoming one of the NBA’s most influential point guards with the Boston Celtics. He helped lead the Celtics to six NBA championships, was a 13-time NBA All-Star, won an NBA Most Valuable Player award and was named to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.
The bridge is located near the entrance to the Holy Cross campus. State officials said the location was chosen as a permanent tribute to Cousy’s impact on the city, the college and basketball.
"Bob Cousy changed the game of basketball forever, but his impact reaches far beyond the court," said Gov. Healey. "He has represented Worcester and Massachusetts with integrity, humility and excellence throughout his life. It's only fitting that this bridge, which connects people and communities every day, will forever carry the name of someone who has inspired generations on and off the court, myself included."
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