1958 NBA Championship
The only NBA championship in franchise history, won against the Celtics dynasty.
The 1958 NBA Championship stands as the singular pinnacle of the franchise's history, achieved when the team was known as the St. Louis Hawks before relocating to Atlanta in 1968. This victory remains the only league title in the organization's existence, cementing its legacy despite subsequent decades without a ring. Led by center Bob Pettit, the Hawks defeated the formidable Boston Celtics dynasty in a six-game series. The triumph is celebrated by modern Atlanta fans as the foundational glory of their club, linking the current identity to a golden era of professional basketball dominance.
- Year
- 1958
- Franchise Name
- St. Louis Hawks
- Opponent
- Boston Celtics
- Series Result
- 4-2
- Finals MVP
- Bob Pettit (Retroactive)
- Head Coach
- Andy Phillip
- Arena
- St. Louis Arena
Lore & Background
This era defined the Hawks as a powerhouse capable of challenging Bill Russell and the Celtics. Bob Pettit was the undisputed force, averaging high points and rebounds throughout the season and playoffs. His physical dominance in the paint set the tone for the team's identity during their St. Louis tenure. The series is remembered for its intensity and the crowd noise at the St. Louis Arena. The Hawks' victory interrupted what would become a long period of Celtics supremacy, marking a unique moment where the franchise stood atop the NBA world before eventually moving to the South.
In Their Own Story
The air inside the St. Louis Arena hummed with electric tension as Bob Pettit stepped onto the hardwood for Game Six. The crowd roared, a sea of anticipation waiting for the final buzzer. Under the bright lights, Pettit drove past the defense, his silhouette framed against the vintage backboard. With the championship on the line, he rose and released the ball. It swished through the net, sealing history in a moment of pure, unadulterated triumph.
Reader's Guide
The 1950s era represents the franchise's most successful period before the Atlanta relocation. This chapter was defined by Bob Pettit's Hall of Fame career and the team's ability to win on the biggest stage. What defined this time was the balance between offensive firepower and defensive grit, allowing them to overcome the Celtics' size advantage. It matters to the club's identity because it is the sole championship in their lineage, serving as the ultimate benchmark for all future rosters. For fans today, understanding 1958 provides context for the franchise's resilience. While they have had many great players since moving to Atlanta, this title remains the anchor of their historical prestige.
Did You Know?
- The 1958 championship is the only NBA title in the franchise's entire history.
- Bob Pettit was named the Finals MVP retroactively for his performance that year.
- The Hawks moved from St. Louis to Atlanta ten years after winning this title.
- This victory broke a streak of Celtics dominance before they won multiple titles later.