Tommy Heinsohn, a Boston Celtics legend, has passed away at the age of 86.
The team confirmed Heinsohn’s passing Monday in a statement.
“This is a devastating loss,” the Celtics said. “Tommy was the ultimate Celtic. For the past 18 years, our ownership group has relied hugely on Tommy’s advice and insights and have reveled in his hundreds of stories about Red Auerbach, Bill Russell, and how the Celtics became a dynasty. He will be remembered forever.”
Heinsohn, originally from Union City, New Jersey, played for the Celtics for nine seasons, averaging 8.6 points and 8.8 rebounds, and won eight NBA titles with the team. He was an All-Star six times and made four All-NBA Second Teams.
Celtics head coach Brad Stevens said of his death, “Rest In Peace, Tommy. You have meant so much to the six decades of Celtics’ fans that you shared the game with as a HOFer in every facet… An Incredible person, teammate, and mentor.”
Heinsohn went from player to head coach in 1969 and stayed in that role for nine years, winning the NBA Finals in 1974 and 1976.
Later in life, Heinsohn was a commentator and color commentator for broadcasts.
“Tommy doesn’t really do color,” Celtics play-by-play announcer Mike Gorman said, according to the Boston Globe‘s John Powers. “In his heart, he’s still coaching the Celtics, and he always will be. It doesn’t matter who the coach is, and it’s no disrespect to the coach. This always will be Tommy’s team. Tommy will be coaching this team till he takes his final breath. If it was possible to still be playing for this team, he would be.”
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