Tom Heinsohn was born on August 26, 1934 in Jersey City, New Jersey. He grew up with a passion for basketball and began playing at a young age. Heinsohn attended Holy Cross College, where he played for the school's basketball team. He quickly made a name for himself as a talented and skilled player, becoming Holy Cross's all-time leading scorer during his three years at the school.
In 1956, Tom Heinsohn was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the NBA draft. He quickly became a key player for the team, helping lead them to their first NBA Championship that same year. Over the course of his career, Heinsohn was a crucial part of each of the Celtics' first 17 NBA Championships, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of the franchise.
Heinsohn was known for his scoring ability, rebounding skills, and tenacious defense. He was named to six All-Star games during his career, showcasing his talent and impact on the court. In addition to his success as a player, Heinsohn also had a brief stint as a coach for the Celtics, further solidifying his place in the team's storied history.
Off the court, Tom Heinsohn was a devoted husband to his wife, Helen Heinsohn. The couple was married until Helen's passing in 2008, and their love and partnership was a source of strength and support for Heinsohn throughout his life.
One of Heinsohn's closest friends and longtime teammates on the Celtics was Bill Russell. The two formed a dynamic duo on the court, leading the team to multiple championships and creating lasting memories for Celtics fans around the world.
Tom Heinsohn's impact on the game of basketball, and specifically on the Boston Celtics organization, cannot be overstated. His skill, passion, and dedication to the sport helped shape the team's legacy and solidify its place in NBA history.
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