Sam Jones (basketball, born 1933)

Sam Jones (June 24, 1933 – December 30, 2021) was an American professional basketball player. He played shooting guard for the Boston Celtics of the National Basketball Association (NBA) from 1957 to 1969.

Jones is widely regarded as one of the greatest shooting guards in NBA history and one of the most successful players ever, having won 10 NBA championships – the second-most of any NBA player after teammate Bill Russell. He was known for his clutch performances, particularly his game-winning shots in crucial moments.

Early Life and College Career:

Born in Wilmington, North Carolina, Jones attended Laurinburg Institute, a historically black boarding school, for his secondary education. He then played college basketball at North Carolina Central University, a historically black college, where he was a two-time All-CIAA selection.

Professional Career:

Jones was drafted by the Boston Celtics with the eighth overall pick in the 1957 NBA draft. Initially, he struggled to find playing time on a veteran-laden Celtics team. However, his dedication and work ethic eventually earned him a prominent role. He became a key contributor alongside legends like Bill Russell, Bob Cousy, and John Havlicek, forming the core of the Celtics dynasty that dominated the NBA in the 1960s.

Jones was a five-time NBA All-Star (1962, 1964–1966, 1968) and was named to the All-NBA Second Team three times (1965–1967). He averaged 17.7 points per game over his 12-year career. His jersey number 24 was retired by the Boston Celtics in 1969.

Retirement and Legacy:

After retiring from basketball, Jones worked as a coach and educator. He coached at Federal City College (now University of the District of Columbia) and North Carolina Central University.

Sam Jones was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1984. He is remembered as a humble and dedicated player who played a vital role in one of the greatest dynasties in sports history. His clutch performances and unwavering focus on team success made him a Celtics legend.