Tommy Heinsohn, Hall of Famer & Celtics Legend, Dies At 86

Basketball Hall of Famer and Boston Celtics legend Tommy Heinsohn has died at 86. Celtics confirmed on Tuesday that the legend passed away via Twitter.

Heinsohn was drafted by the Celtics in 1956 as a power forward. Heinsohn played for the Celtics from 1956-1965. He won the Rookie of the Year award in 1956, selected to six all-star games. He was able to help the Celtics win eight championships during his tenure as a player.

Heinsohn retired in 1965 and his jersey was retired that same year. He became the head coach for the Celtics from 1967-1978. As head coach, he helped the Celtics win an additional two championships and won the 1973 Coach of the Year award. He was also a four-time all star-head coach.

Heinsohn was inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame in 1986 as a player. He was inducted again in 2015 but as a coach. He became one of four players to be inducted into the Hall of Fame as both a coach and player.

Fellow Celtics Hall of Famer and teammate Bill Russell took to Twitter to post a tribute to his teammate after his passing was announced.

Article by Allan Perez