Ed Macauley, often remembered by his nickname "Easy Ed," was a towering presence in the world of professional basketball during the 1950s. Born on March 22, 1928, in St. Louis, Missouri, Macauley developed his basketball skills at a young age, eventually leading him to a standout collegiate career at Saint Louis University. His exceptional performance in college basketball earned him All-American honors and set the stage for his entry into the professional leagues.

In 1949, Macauley was drafted by the St. Louis Bombers of the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which later merged with the National Basketball League (NBL) to form the National Basketball Association (NBA). After the Bombers folded, Macauley was picked up by the Boston Celtics in a dispersal draft. It was with the Celtics that Macauley truly began to shine, becoming one of the league's most efficient scorers and a reliable center.

Standing at 6 feet 8 inches, Macauley was known for his agility and scoring ability, which were somewhat unconventional for a player of his size during that era. His finesse on the court earned him the nickname "Easy Ed," as he made difficult plays look effortless. During his tenure with the Celtics, Macauley was selected to the All-NBA First Team three times and was a seven-time NBA All-Star. His performance in the 1951 NBA All-Star Game was particularly memorable, as he was named the game's Most Valuable Player.

In 1956, Macauley was traded to the St. Louis Hawks, a move that brought him back to his hometown. This trade was part of a deal that sent Bill Russell to the Celtics, a transaction that would have lasting implications for both teams. With the Hawks, Macauley continued to be a valuable player, helping lead the team to the NBA Finals in 1957. The Hawks faced off against the Celtics in a thrilling series that went to seven games, though the Celtics ultimately emerged victorious.

The following year, in 1958, Macauley and the Hawks had their revenge. The team once again reached the NBA Finals, and this time they defeated the Celtics to win the championship. This victory marked the pinnacle of Macauley's professional career, as he played a crucial role in securing the Hawks' first and only NBA title.

After the 1958 season, Macauley decided to retire from professional basketball. He transitioned into coaching, taking the helm as the head coach of the St. Louis Hawks for the 1958-1959 season. Although his coaching career was brief, it demonstrated his deep understanding of the game and his ability to lead and inspire players.

Beyond his on-court achievements, Macauley's legacy in basketball is also remembered for his sportsmanship and character. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1960, a testament to his influence and excellence in the sport.

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