OT: Tommy Heinsohn passes

[Aluminny69]

Tom Heinsohn, the Celtics’ accomplished and animated renaissance man who was involved in all 17 of the franchise’s National Basketball Association titles as a player, coach, and commentator, has died, according to multiple people affiliated with the NBA. He was 86.



On the parquet, Mr. Heinsohn was a no-holds-barred net-ripper, an irrepressible fixture alongside stars Bob Cousy and Bill Russell in the Celtics’ golden age of the late 1950s and 1960s. Mr. Heinsohn collected eight championship rings in nine seasons as a player and was named an All-Star six times on his way to the Basketball Hall of Fame.



His retired number 15 hangs from the rafters at TD Garden.




tommy-heinsohn-celtics-coach-player-tv-dies

 

[Aluminny69]

 

[Carnac]

RIP Tommy Heinsohn.

 

[RockyMTblue2]

Enjoyed Tommy on the hardwood and as a coach. He had this one fault: If you asked him a question he gave you an honest answer. Part of a colorful and rich Celtic history. Somewhere up there he's lacing up his sneakers getting ready to go in.

 

[Steelerone]

"Jungle Jim" Loscatoff was the enforcer for the Celtics but "Tough Tommy" was a close second. During a difficult time for Black players in the league Bill Russell was sometimes subjected to some very "physical" behavior. During these times Heinsohn always had his back. He was the classic strong forward and set the tone for players who came later. He embodied the Celtic way, tough and team.

 

[Scud49]

Oh man, this one hurts, as a High School kid in the 60's he was my favorite player on those amazing Celtic teams. That line drive jumper, big sweeping hook, and slashing drives to the basket - I just loved his aggressive style. RIP Tommy, as a player, coach, and announcer, you were a Celtic legend through and through.

 

[oldude]

Heinsohn was a Celtic to his core. I'm certain if he cut himself shaving, he would no doubt bleed Celtic green.......

 

[FanFromMaine]

Tommy Heinsohn took up the mantle after Johnny Most. Homerism at its best...

 

[Viet Vet]

Tommy Heinsohn took up the mantle after Johnny Most. Homerism at its best...

Worst.