1974 John Havlicek FMVP Breakdown（二）

The 1969 Finals was a do-or-die passage for the aging Celtics. Facing Wilt Chamberlain's Philadelphia 76ers, Boston went the full seven games. With seconds left and Boston leading by a single point, Philadelphia had the last inbound, the ball swinging to Sam Jones for a potential game-winner.

At that instant Havlicek ghosted in from behind Jones and slapped the pass away, killing Philadelphia's comeback. The TV announcer cracked his voice yelling "Havlicek stole the ball! Havlicek stole the ball!"—audio that has been replayed so often it is one of the most recognizable sound bites in league history.

The steal meant more than one possession: it symbolized an era's survival. Bill Russell was about to retire and the dynasty looked fragile, yet Havlicek's defense announced the green spirit would not leave with the old guard. That 1969 title was Russell's farewell as player-coach and Havlicek's proof that he had taken the torch.

Related Reading

• 1974 NBA Finals MVP: John Havlicek (Boston Celtics)
• Classic Battles: Havlicek’s Playoff Moments
• Two-Sport Rookie: Drafted by Both the NBA Celtics and MLB Red Sox
• The Eight-Ring Dynasty: Havlicek and the Passing of the Celtic Torch
• The Do-Everything Wing: Havlicek, a Pioneer of "Positionless" Basketball