How many NBA Championship rings did Sam Jones win during his time in the NBA?

The NBA and its supporters should never forget about the late Sam Jones, who was a shooting guard for the Boston Celtics and a member of the Hall of Fame. In 7 of his 12 postseasons, Mr Clutch, as he was known, averaged 20 points per contest. 

Only Bill Russell, his former teammate, has more rings than Jones in NBA history. Sam Jones won 10 titles. Sam amassed 1,770 points while playing for the renowned John McClendon at North Carolina Central. He initially suffered from playing time until coming out of nowhere.

Image Credits – NY Times

The Celtics advanced past Philadelphia and into the NBA Finals thanks to his shot over Wilt Chamberlain in 1961–1962. During the season Chamberlain averaged 50 points per game—when Boston defeated the Los Angeles Lakers for the Celtics’ fourth consecutive championship. There would be more chances to win NBA championships.

All you need to know about Sam Jones’ legendary NBA career

Sam Jones didn’t realize at the time how John McClendon’s instruction in the game had prepared him to join a team that consistently won the NBA title. When he discovered Boston had picked him, he was disappointed (players received a phone call about where they were drafted back then).

Image Credits – NBA

Sam Jones chose to attend North Carolina Central, another HBCU, despite receiving offers from Big House Gaines at Winston Salem State and wanting to attend North Carolina A&T because they had the best baseball program of any HBCU. Jones chose North Carolina Central because he is from Wilmington, North Carolina, wanted to stay close to home, and Division 1 schools weren’t accepting many black athletes.

Because black institutions were not NCAA members, they were not subject to the same rules and regulations. An HBCU coach may give you a tryout at any moment if he wanted you on his squad. There weren’t many limitations.

Between 1959 and 1966, Sam Jones and the Celtics won 8 straight NBA titles, then in 1968–1969, they won two more. Sam Jones was reportedly never seen playing until Auerbach selected him. Before picking a player, Auerbach often does two personal scouting of that player. When it came to Jones, he relied on a coach and his judgment, and his surprise selection of the unproven athlete stunned everyone. Sure did work out, though.

When discussing NBA greatness, the topic of rings is often brought up. Bill Russell, Michael Jordan, and even Robert Horry are mentioned. Sam Jones is a name you shouldn’t forget. Jones frequently took up the scoring load as Bill Russell attempted to limit Wilt Chamberlain to under 50 points.

 

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