In 1969, the Boston Celtics selected White as the ninth overall pick in the NBA Draft. Joining a team with a rich history of success, White quickly adapted to the professional level, bringing his sharp shooting and defensive prowess to the Celtics' backcourt. His rookie season set the stage for what would become an illustrious career, as he averaged 12.2 points per game and demonstrated an uncanny ability to perform under pressure.
White's tenure with the Celtics was marked by consistency and excellence. He became known for his durability, playing in 488 consecutive games from 1971 to 1977, a testament to his physical fitness and dedication to the sport. His ability to remain on the court was matched by his performance, as he averaged over 18 points per game for five consecutive seasons from 1971 to 1976.
The 1974 NBA season was a highlight in White's career. He played a crucial role in leading the Celtics to an NBA Championship, their first since 1969. His performance in the playoffs was nothing short of spectacular, as he averaged 21.5 points per game and provided the leadership and poise needed to guide his team to victory. White's efforts were instrumental in the Celtics' triumph over the Milwaukee Bucks in a hard-fought seven-game series.
Two years later, in 1976, White once again found himself at the center of the Celtics' championship run. The 1976 NBA Finals against the Phoenix Suns featured one of the most memorable games in NBA history, a triple-overtime thriller in Game 5. White's endurance and skill were on full display as he played 60 minutes and scored 33 points, helping the Celtics secure a pivotal victory. His outstanding performance throughout the series earned him the NBA Finals MVP award, solidifying his place among the league's elite players.
Throughout his career, White was recognized for his exceptional playmaking abilities and defensive tenacity. He was selected to the NBA All-Star team seven times, from 1971 to 1977, and was named to the All-NBA Second Team twice, in 1975 and 1977. His contributions to the Celtics were not limited to scoring; he was also a proficient passer and a tenacious defender, often tasked with guarding the opposing team's best perimeter player.
In 1979, White's time with the Celtics came to an end when he was traded to the Golden State Warriors. Although his stint with the Warriors was brief, he continued to demonstrate his skills on the court. He later joined the Kansas City Kings, where he played until his retirement in 1981. Over the course of his NBA career, White amassed over 14,000 points, 4,000 assists, and 3,000 rebounds, leaving a lasting legacy in the league.
Jo Jo White's impact on the game extended beyond his playing days. In 2015, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, a fitting recognition of his contributions to the sport. His number 10 jersey was retired by the Boston Celtics, ensuring that his legacy would be remembered by future generations of basketball fans.
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