Date of Birth: August 26, 1934
Zodiac Sign: Virgo
Date of Death: November 9, 2020
Biography
Tom Heinsohn was an iconic figure in the world of basketball, known for his multifaceted contributions to the sport as a player, coach, and broadcaster. Born on August 26, 1934, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Heinsohn’s basketball career began to flourish during his college years at the College of the Holy Cross, where he was an All-American. He was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1956 and quickly became a cornerstone of the team’s success. Heinsohn played his entire NBA career with the Celtics, earning eight NBA championships from 1957 to 1965. After retiring as a player, he transitioned seamlessly into coaching, leading the Celtics to two additional championships in 1974 and 1976. Beyond coaching, Heinsohn became a beloved broadcaster, providing color commentary for Celtics games for decades. His legacy in basketball is cemented not only by his Hall of Fame induction as a player in 1986 but also as a coach in 2015. Heinsohn passed away on November 9, 2020, leaving behind a rich legacy in the sport he loved.
5 Interesting Facts about Tom Heinsohn
1. Tom Heinsohn was a six-time NBA All-Star.
2. He was the NBA Rookie of the Year in 1957.
3. Heinsohn is one of only four people to be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as both a player and a coach.
4. He was known for his advocacy for players’ rights and was instrumental in forming the NBA Players Association.
5. Heinsohn was also an accomplished painter, with his works often reflecting his love for the game of basketball.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Tom Heinsohn
1. “Basketball is a beautiful game when the five players on the court play with one heartbeat.”
2. “I was lucky to be in the right place at the right time, with the right people.”
3. “The key to winning championships is not about the talent you have, but about the teamwork you build.”
4. “Coaching is about inspiring players to reach beyond their limits.”
5. “The Celtics are not just a team; they’re a part of my soul.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Tom Heinsohn’s net worth was estimated to be around $8 million.
Children
Tom Heinsohn had one son, Paul Heinsohn, who has largely stayed out of the public eye.
Relevant Links
1. [Tom Heinsohn – NBA Hall of Fame Bio](https://www.hoophall.com/hall-of-famers/tom-heinsohn/
4. [Tom Heinsohn’s Obituary – NBA.com](https://www.nba.com/news/tom-heinsohn-obituary
5. [Tom Heinsohn’s Art – Gallery](https://www.celtics.com/tom-heinsohn-art
