This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 9/10/2006.
Soft-spoken and modest aptly describe John Havlicek's personality, an interesting combination for the man who is regarded as the best sixth man in NBA history. John "Hondo" Havlicek combined his running ability and endurance to establish a style of constant movement on offense and defense that frustrated opponents and added to the Boston Celtics' magic. During his 16 years with the Boston Celtics, coach Red Auerbach described Havlicek as the "guts of the team." The man who popularized the integral role of the sixth man was a collegiate star at Ohio State. An All-America and All-Big Ten selection in 1962, "Hondo" teamed with fellow Hall of Famers Jerry Lucas and Bob Knight to land Ohio State the 1960 NCAA championship. In 1962, Havlicek was drafted by both the Boston Celtics and the NFL's Cleveland Browns. After being cut by the Browns in training camp, Havlicek began a celebrated 16-year career with the Celtics. In total, Havlicek would win eight championships in Boston. From the day he arrived in there, Havlicek was a scoring threat, and became the first player to score 1,000 points in 16 consecutive seasons. On the left front tail is the "Medalist Sand-Knit Boston Celtics" manufacturer's tag. Below that is an additional "Medalist Sand-Knit" manufacturer's tag with the jersey size "44" and wash instructions on it. Across the front of the jersey is "CELTICS." Below that and on the back is the player number "17." Across the back is "HAVLICEK." All lettering and numbering is done in white tackle twill. The jersey is autographed on the back number in black marker and rates a 9. The jersey shows game use and appears to have no alterations of any kind. The autograph is accompanied by a LOA from James Spence Authentication.