How ironic that as the Celtics prepare to make a point guard a priority in tonight's NBA draft, the Basketball Hall of Fame yesterday established the annual Bob Cousy Collegiate Point Guard Award, honoring the ``Houdini of the Hardwood'' who led the C's to six NBA championships.

Cousy, 74, explained during a press conference at Boston College that ``a point guard is the heart and soul of a team,'' and cited the New Jersey Nets' Jason Kidd as a prime example of how a superb one transforms a team and stressed ``the creation of this award is so meaningful in my life.''

``I'd love to see a Division 3 kid be the first recipient of this award,'' said Cousy, who realizes players from the bigger schools will garner more attention.

The award will recognize qualities such as leadership, passing and creating team offense. The first recipient will be named at next year's men's NCAA Final Four in San Antonio.

``Bob has a vision for this award,'' said Hall of Fame president John Doleva. ``He wants to recognize the vital importance of the position and highlight its crucial role in team success.''