The former champion was also a coach and president of the NBPA.

It was announced that Paul Silas, a three-time NBA champion, coach, and president of the National Basketball Players Association has passed away, he was 79.

Charlotte Hornets Chairman Michael Jordan said: “He combined the knowledge developed over nearly 40 years as an NBA player and coach with an innate understanding of how to mix discipline with his never-ending positivity.

“On or off the court, Paul's enthusiastic and engaging personality was accompanied by an anecdote for every occasion. He was one of the all-time great people in our game, and he will be missed.”

His son, Stephen Silas, is currently the head coach of the Houston Rockets.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver added: “We mourn the passing of former NBA All-Star and head coach Paul Silas.

“Paul's lasting contributions to the game are seen through the many players and coaches he inspired, including his son, Rockets head coach Stephen Silas. We send our deepest condolences to Paul's family.”

His career as a head coach began with a three-year stint leading the then-San Diego Clippers starting in 1980. He also spent time with the Charlotte Hornets, New Orleans Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Charlotte Bobcats.

He took four of those teams to the playoffs, winning exactly 400 games.

NBA legend Magic Johnson said: “Paul made a huge contribution to the game of basketball and will be sorely missed!”

Stephen Silas plans to be away from the Houston Rockets for some time. In the interim, John Lucas will lead the Rockets.

Silas was voted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2017.