John Havlicek Then and Now

John Havlicek Then

John Havlicek was born on April 8, 1940, in Martins Ferry, Ohio. Growing up in a small town, Havlicek developed a passion for sports at an early age, excelling in both basketball and football. 

His athletic talents were evident throughout his high school years, leading him to pursue higher education at Ohio State University. 

At Ohio State, Havlicek teamed up with future basketball legends Jerry Lucas and Bob Knight. 

This formidable trio led the Buckeyes to win the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) championship in 1960, cementing Havlicek’s reputation as a versatile and highly skilled player. 

His collegiate success set the stage for an illustrious career in professional sports.

John HavlicekCareer History

After graduating from Ohio State University, John Havlicek faced a unique crossroads in his professional career. 

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He was drafted by both the Cleveland Browns of the National Football League (NFL) and the Boston Celtics of the National Basketball Association (NBA). 

Although he initially joined the Browns, Havlicek was cut from the team, prompting him to fully commit to basketball.

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He joined the Celtics in 1962, where he would become an integral part of the team’s success.

Throughout his career, he was renowned for his relentless energy, clutch performances, and exceptional skill at both ends of the court.

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Havlicek’s career is highlighted by eight NBA championships (1963–66, 1968–69, 1974, 1976) and his role in one of the most iconic moments in NBA history—his steal in the closing seconds of game seven of the 1965 Eastern Division finals, which secured a victory for the Celtics.

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Despite primarily coming off the bench, Havlicek set an NBA record for most games played (1,270) and ranked third on the all-time points-scored list upon his retirement in 1978. 

His consistent excellence earned him 13 consecutive All-Star selections (1965–66 to 1977–78) and five All-Defensive first-team honors.

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In 1996, he was named one of the top 50 players in NBA history, and he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1984, solidifying his legacy as one of basketball’s all-time greats.

John Havlicek Height

Standing at 6 feet 5 inches (1.96 meters), John Havlicek’s height contributed significantly to his versatility and effectiveness on the basketball court.

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John Havlicek Wife

While attending Ohio State University, John Havlicek met his future wife, Beth.

Their shared time at the university laid the foundation for a lifelong partnership, culminating in their marriage in 1967. 

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The couple had two children: a son named Chris and a daughter named Jill. 

Continuing the family’s athletic legacy, Chris Havlicek attended the University of Virginia on a basketball scholarship in the early 1990s, showcasing the influence of his father’s storied career.

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This close-knit family maintained strong ties to the sport that had defined John’s professional life, enriching their personal history with athletic achievements and shared experiences.

John Havlicek Retirement

John Havlicek retired from professional basketball after the 1977–78 NBA season at the age of 38, concluding an illustrious 16-year career with the Boston Celtics.

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Despite his age, Havlicek’s performance and skill level remained remarkably high. 

In April 1978, The Sporting News reflected this sentiment, noting that “the consensus is that Havlicek is still better than 80 percent of the players in the NBA.”

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This statement underscored Havlicek’s enduring athleticism, talent, and dedication to the game, which allowed him to maintain a competitive edge over the majority of his peers even in the twilight of his career.

His retirement marked the end of an era for the Celtics, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and a standard for future generations to aspire to.

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John Havlicek Now

John Havlicek, now 79 years old, is revered as one of the greatest basketball players in NBA history, having spent his entire career with the Boston Celtics. 

Playing for the Ohio State Buckeyes from 1959 to 1962, he showcased his exceptional talent and leadership on the court, contributing significantly to the team’s success, including winning the NCAA championship in 1960.

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Havlicek’s transition to the NBA with the Boston Celtics in 1962 marked the beginning of a remarkable professional career spanning 16 seasons. 

Standing at 6 feet 5 inches tall, he excelled as a versatile swingman, capable of playing both forward and guard positions with equal proficiency. 

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Known for his boundless energy, clutch performances, and relentless defensive prowess, Havlicek played a pivotal role in the Celtics’ dominance during the 1960s and 1970s.

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His tenure with the Celtics saw him win eight NBA championships (1963–66, 1968–69, 1974, 1976), further cementing his legacy as a cornerstone of the franchise’s unparalleled success.

Throughout his career, Havlicek was recognized with 13 consecutive NBA All-Star selections (1966–1978) and earned five All-Defensive First Team honors for his defensive acumen.

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He retired in 1978 as the Celtics’ all-time leading scorer, having amassed numerous accolades and records that solidified his place among basketball’s elite.

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Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1984, John Havlicek’s impact on the sport continues to be celebrated for his skill, dedication, and enduring contributions to the game of basketball.

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