The Celtics have confirmed that Hall-of-Fame forward John Havlicek, the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, has passed away at the age of 79 after a battle with Parkinson’s Disease. As part of their official statement, the Celtics wrote:
“John Havlicek is one of the most accomplished players in Boston Celtics history, and the face of many of the franchise’s signature moments. He was a great champion both on the court and in the community, winning 8 NBA championships and an NBA Finals MVP.”
“Named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History, he is enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame… His defining traits as a player were his relentless hustle and wholehearted commitment to team over self. He was extraordinarily thoughtful and generous, both on a personal level and for those in need…”
“John was kind and considerate, humble and gracious. He was a champion in every sense, and as we join his family, friends, and fans in mourning his loss, we are thankful for all the joy and inspiration he brought to us.”
Havlicek, affectionately known as “Hondo,” is perhaps best known for his clutch steal in the closing moments of Game 7 of the 1965 Eastern Conference Finals between the Celtics and 76ers. Boston would go on to win the NBA Finals that season 4-1 over the Lakers.
What a player! RIP.
“People look at players, watch them dribble between their legs and they say, ‘There’s a superstar.’ Well John Havlicek is a superstar, and most of the others are figments of writers’ imagination.”
–Jerry West, on John Havlicek
RIP Hondo. One of the best ever! Loved the Bradley/Hondo matchups. The best!
Great three sport athlete, good businessman, and a tremendous gentleman…RIP Hondo
He set the standard for nonstop activity at a frontline position. Speaking of R.I.P… He was a taller Rip Hamilton, swinging like a pendulum side to side on the baseline. I don’t recall if he used screens like Rip. These are a kid’s memories. He got so many fastbreak points and seemed like a player who had freakish stamina and never had a slump or a pause in movement or thought, like a fluid robot. He discouraged opponents more than take them on; his thing was to be uncatchable. This may be common for a guard but he was not a natural guard (despite what wiki says). Got lots of attention on TV broadcasts… viewers as well as opponents were challenged to be as alert as Havlicek. All-NBA until retirement at 38.
You can’t find a picture? A Boston Celtic flag?
Celtic’s all time leading scorer and never had a 3
Point field goal. Amazing with the Celtics franchise that this statement is true.
R.I.P. Hondo. You were incredible.
It was a pleasure and a privilege to have watched him play! Too bad there isn’t more like him today. THANKS HONDO!