John Havlicek

John J. Havlicek (born April 8, 1940 in Martins Ferry, Ohio) is an American former professional basketball player, thought to be one of the best NBA players in history, especially in defense. He was inducted as a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1984. He played for the Boston Celtics his entire pro career and won eight NBA titles with them.

Related Topics:
April 8 - 1940 - Martins Ferry, Ohio - Basketball - NBA - Basketball Hall of Fame - 1984 - Boston Celtics

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Even though Havlicek is considered one of the best players in NBA history, he was mostly overlooked as a college player because he was on the same team as Jerry Lucas at Ohio State University. That team also had future coaching legend Bobby Knight as a substitute player. Together, they won the 1960 NCAA title.

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Jerry Lucas - Ohio State University - Bobby Knight - NCAA title

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Havlicek as a young pro revolutionized the "sixth man" role. Also, he is immortalized in Celtics announcer Johnny Most's exclamation, "Havlicek steals it. Over to Sam Jones. Havlicek stole the ball! It's all over! Johnny Havlicek stole the ball!".

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His nickname, "Hondo", was inspired by the John Wayne movie of the same name.

Related Topics:
Hondo - John Wayne

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