Boston Celtics legend and Hall of Famer Sam Jones, 88, died Thursday night of natural causes, according to the team. Jones was a 10-time NBA Champion, second only to teammate Bill Russell in league history.
“Sam Jones was one of the most talented, versatile, and clutch shooters for the most successful and dominant teams in NBA history. His scoring ability was so prolific, and his form so pure, that he earned the simple nickname, “The Shooter,” the Celtic said in their statement. “… The Jones family is in our thoughts as we mourn his loss and fondly remember the life and career of one of the greatest champions in American sports.”
Jones’ Celtics career spanned 12 years as a player. From the time he was drafted No. 8 overall in the 1957 NBA Draft to when he played his last game after winning his 10th ring in 1969 for the Celtics, Jones suited up for 1,025 total games for the team, including regular season and playoff games. His No. 24 has been retired by the team since 1969 as well.
Celtics legend and Hall of Famer Sam Jones, 88, died Thursday night of natural causes, according to a team spokesperson. A true all-time great.
— Adam Himmelsbach (@AdamHimmelsbach) December 31, 2021
Jones was a five-time All-Star and three-time All-NBA player. He was listed on the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team this past year as well.
This post originally appeared on Celtics Wire. Follow us on Facebook!
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