Celtics legend Sam Jones died Thursday evening at the age of 88, the team announced Friday.
Jones played 12 seasons for Boston from 1957-69 and won 10 NBA championships during that time, the second-most of any player in NBA history behind only teammate Bill Russell (11).
Along with Russell and K.C. Jones, he was one of three Celtics who won eight straight titles with the team from 1959-66. Jones made five All-Star teams and was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1984. His No. 24 is retired by the Celtics.
Jones, regarded as one of the best shooters and clutch scorers of his day, led the Celtics in scoring for the 1962-63, 1964-65 and 1965-66 seasons. He averaged over 20 points per game four times. Jones ranks seventh in franchise history in points and 10th in games played.
After his playing career, Jones coached at Federal City College (now the University of the District of Columbia) and then North Carolina Central University (his alma mater). He was also an assistant coach for the New Orleans Jazz during their first NBA season in 1974-75.
"Sam Jones was one of the most talented, versatile, and clutch shooters for the most successful and dominant teams in NBA history," the Celtics said in a statement. "His scoring ability was so prolific, and his form so pure, that he earned the simple nickname, 'The Shooter.' He was also known as 'Mr. Clutch.'
"One of the many testaments to his clutch performances is the fact that his playoff scoring average (18.9) exceeded his regular season output (17.7). His number 24 was retired in 1969, the final year of his Celtics career, which of course resulted in an NBA Championship – his tenth. Only Bill Russell won more championships in his NBA career. 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."
