December 31, (THEWILL) – Sam Jones, a Hall of Fame guard with the Boston Celtics, has passed away. According to the Celtics, Jones was hospitalised in Florida for weeks, while his health deteriorated leading to his death on Thursday.
An official statement from the Celtics read: “Sam Jones was one of the most talented, versatile, and clutch shooters for the most successful and dominant teams in NBA history.
“…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.”
During his 12-year career with the Celtics from 1957 to 1969, Jones won 10 NBA championships and was named to five NBA All-Star teams. During his NBA career, only colleague Bill Russell won more titles.
Jones has been nominated to the NBA’s 25th, 50th, and 75th anniversary teams, the most recent of which was announced earlier this year. His number 24 jersey was retired by the Celtics in 1969, and in 1984, he was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
Adam Silver, the NBA Commissioner, said in a statement: “Sam Jones will be remembered as one of the most prolific champions in all of professional sports. His selfless style, clutch performances and signature bank shot were hallmarks of an incredible career that featured 10 NBA championships in 12 seasons with the Boston Celtics.
“An HBCU legend at North Carolina Central University and a member of the NBA’s 25th, 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams, Sam was a beloved teammate and respected competitor who played the game with dignity and class.
“We mourn the passing of a basketball giant and send our deepest condolences to Sam’s family and the Celtics organisation.”
Jones coached at Federal City College and North Carolina Central University after retiring, followed by a brief spell as an assistant coach with the New Orleans Jazz.
He spent much of his post-playing career in Maryland as a substitute teacher, giving back to the community. He was 88 years old.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
