St. Louis Hawks
From the Midwest to the title: The Bob Pettit era that forged a champion.
The St. Louis Hawks represent a crucial, foundational chapter in the lineage of the Atlanta Hawks franchise, serving as the team's home from 1955 to 1968 before their relocation to Atlanta. Originally established as the Tri-Cities Blackhawks and later the Milwaukee Hawks, the club found its first true identity and championship glory in St. Louis, Missouri. This era is defined by the emergence of Bob Pettit, who captured the league's first official Most Valuable Player award in 1956, and anchored a resilient team that brought an NBA title to the city in 1958.
- Role
- Foundational Era & First Championship
- Location
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Years Active
- 1955–1968
- Key Figure
- Bob Pettit (Hall of Famer)
- Major Honour
- NBA Champions (1958)
- Arena
- Kiel Auditorium
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
The St. Louis Hawks moved from Milwaukee in 1955, Milwaukee's rival in the beer industry. In 1956, Bob Pettit captured the league's first official Most Valuable Player award. That same year, the Hawks drafted Bill Russell second overall but immediately traded him to the Boston Celtics for Cliff Hagan and Ed Macauley, both Hall of Fame members. In 1957, the Hawks finished four games under .500 but won the Western Division title and advanced to the NBA Finals, losing to the Boston Celtics in a double-overtime thriller in game seven. In 1958, after tallying their first winning record, they again advanced to the NBA Finals, where they avenged their defeat against the Celtics, winning the series 4–2 and giving the Hawks their first and only NBA championship. Bob Pettit scored 50 points in the final game of the series. The following season, Pettit led the Hawks to a Western Division-best 49–23 record, helping him capture his second MVP award. The Hawks remained one of the NBA's premier teams for the next decade, advancing to the NBA Finals in 1960 and 1961, losing to the Celtics both times. They would remain contenders for most of the 1960s, advancing deep into the playoffs and capturing several division titles.
In Their Own Story
The lights hummed over Kiel Auditorium as the crowd roared, a sea of anticipation rising with every dribble. Bob Pettit received the pass near the baseline, his eyes locked on the rim. The Boston Celtics defense closed in, but Pettit rose like a mountain, absorbing contact before launching the shot that would seal another victory for St. Louis. In that moment, under the flickering arena lights, the city knew it had witnessed greatness.
Reader's Guide
The St. Louis Era (1955–1968) is defined by the transition from a struggling franchise to an NBA champion and the legendary tenure of Bob Pettit. This chapter matters because it established the team's first major trophy, breaking the Boston Celtics' hold on the league and proving the Hawks could compete with any dynasty. The 1958 championship remains the only title in franchise history. Pettit's dominance during these years set a standard for power forwards that influenced generations of players. His ability to score from anywhere inside the arc and his rebounding prowess made him an icon, cementing St. Louis as a basketball city before the move to Atlanta.
Did You Know?
- Bob Pettit scored 50 points in the final game of the 1958 NBA Finals to clinch the championship.
- The Hawks drafted Bill Russell second overall in 1956 but immediately traded him to the Boston Celtics for Cliff Hagan and Ed Macauley.
- In 1957, the Hawks finished four games under .500 but still won the Western Division title and advanced to the NBA Finals.
- The St. Louis Hawks moved from Milwaukee in 1955, which was Milwaukee's rival in the beer industry.
- The franchise's lone NBA championship, as well as all four NBA Finals appearances, occurred when the team was based in St. Louis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the St. Louis Hawks?
The St. Louis Hawks were the NBA franchise's home base between 1955 and 1968 before moving to Georgia. They represent the period where the team evolved from its Tri-Cities and Milwaukee roots into a championship contender.
What role did Bob Pettit play for the team?
Hall of Famer Bob Pettit anchored this team as one of basketball's greatest power forwards. His leadership helped secure the franchise's only NBA championship during its time in Missouri.
How does the St. Louis Hawks story end?
Following the 1967-1968 season, ownership relocated the franchise from Missouri to Atlanta, Georgia. This move marked the end of the St. Louis chapter and the beginning of the modern Atlanta Hawks era.
Why is this era important to franchise history?
This period delivered the franchise's sole NBA championship victory in 1958, establishing its legacy before relocation. It also solidified the team's identity beyond its earlier incarnations as the Tri-Cities and Milwaukee Hawks.
Where did the St. Louis Hawks play their home games?
Home games were primarily hosted at Kiel Auditorium, though the team also utilized The Arena at St. Louis University during this timeframe. These venues served as the backdrop for their championship run and subsequent playoff battles.