Celtics Hall of Famer and eight-time NBA champion John Havlicek died Thursday at the age of 79, the team announced.
It is with great sadness we have learned that Celtics Legend and Hall of Famer John Havlicek has passed away peacefully today at the age of 79. He will be dearly missed by his Celtics family.
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) April 26, 2019
A statement from the Celtics: https://t.co/yqOkZPkbej pic.twitter.com/xlUCKjbKvg
"John was kind and considerate, humble and gracious," the team wrote in a statement. "He was a champion in every sense, and as we join his family, friends, and fans in mourning his loss, we are thankful for all the joy and inspiration he brought to us."
"It is with deep sadness that I, along with our son Chris, daughter Jill, and seven grandchildren, announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather, John Havlicek," his wife Beth wrote in a statement. "John was a proud man of integrity, moral character, and kindness, and was the Captain of our team.
"The entire Havlicek Family thanks you for your compassion during his valiant battle with Parkinson's Disease. We would also like to thank the many dear friends and fans for the immeasurable support, respect and love they continue to give to Number 17."
Havlicek was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in his later years but no immediate cause of death has been released.
"John Havlicek was a wonderful friend who represented the best of the NBA," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. "He described himself as a man of routine and discipline — a humble approach that produced extraordinary results, including eight NBA championships with the Boston Celtics, 13 All-Star selections and some of the most iconic moments in league history. A trusted teammate who prioritized winning, John’s passion and energy endeared him to basketball fans and made him a model for generations of NBA players. We send our deepest sympathies to John’s wife, Beth, his son, Chris, and his daughter, Jill, as well as the entire Celtics organization."
He was drafted out of Ohio State in 1962 after spending his college years playing alongside coaching icon Bobby Knight.
The Buckeyes won the national championship in 1960.
One of the most prolific "sixth men" in NBA history, Havlicek played alongside former NBA coach Don Nelson in Boston and Hall of Famer Bill Russell.
The long-time guard/forward for Boston was named to 13 All-Star teams and another 11 All-NBA rosters.
He was part of a Celtics team that won four straight titles from 1963 to 1967.
He ultimately won eight championships with Boston.
Havlicek averaged 20.8 points, 6.3 rebounds and 4.8 assists in his career.