Big 5 legend Tom Gola passes away at 81

One of the Big 5's greatest has passed on.

As reported by Philly.com, La Salle legend Tom Gola died Sunday at St. Joseph's Manner in Meadowbrook at age 81.

During his time with the Explorers from 1951-55, Gola led La Salle to an NCAA title in 1954 and a runner-up finish in 1955.

He also spent 11 years in the NBA, earning five consecutive All-Star nods from 1960-64 and winning a championship with the Philadelphia Warriors in 1956.

After his playing career ended, Gola stayed deeply in touch with the sport, coaching at his alma mater for two seasons from 1968-70.

His 68-69 Explorers squad was one of the dominant teams in the country, going 23-1 but being forced to miss out on postseason play as a result of NCAA sanctions for violations that occurred before his tenure.

So great was Gola's influence on La Salle basketball that the school eventually named its on-campus arena in his honor.

"Tom Gola is known by all as a truly great player and coach, but it was the man that was most cherished at La Salle," current Explorers coach John Giannini said to Philly.com.

Though Gola's health had been failing ever since he injured his head in a 2003 fall, his larger-than-life presence will remain a fixture in the Big 5 for years to come.