ginoongkamote's video: NB60s: John Havlicek

Nicknamed "Hondo" (inspired by the 1953 movie of the same name starring John Wayne),John Havlicek revolutionized the "sixth man" role. He has been immortalized for his clutch steal in the closing seconds of the 1965 Eastern Conference championship. In the seventh and final game, played at Boston Garden on April 15, the Celtics led the Philadelphia 76ers 110–109 with five seconds left, and only needed to inbound the ball underneath their basket to secure the victory and advance to the 1965 NBA Finals; however, Bill Russell's pass struck a wire which was hanging down from the ceiling and helping to support the baskets, the turnover then giving the 76ers and Wilt Chamberlain the ball and a chance to win the game and the series. Hal Greer was set to throw the inbounds pass for the 76ers. Havlicek stood with his back to Greer, guarding Chet Walker. But as Greer's pass came inbounds, Havlicek spun, leaped, and tipped the pass to Sam Jones. Veteran referee Earl Strom, who wrote this game action in his memoir Calling the Shots, called Havlicek's reaction one of the greatest plays he ever saw in his 32 years as a professional official. Announcer Johnny Most's call of "Havlicek stole the ball!" was dubbed by the NBA as "the most famous radio call in basketball history." In Game 5 of the 1968 Eastern Division Finals, Havlicek recorded a near triple-double as he racked up 29 points, 9 rebounds and 10 assists as the Celtics avoided to be eliminated by the 76ers. He almost replicated his performance in Game 7 as he recorded 21 points, 12 rebounds and 8 assists in a 100-96 road win against the 76ers. They became the first team to overcome a 3-1 deficit.