Top Quotes From Johnny Most – The Voice Of The Boston Celtics

Johnny Most was an iconic figure in the world of professional basketball as the legendary play-by-play announcer for the Boston Celtics. With his distinctive voice and passionate commentary, he became known as “The Voice of the Celtics.” For over three decades, Most entertained and inspired fans with his colorful commentary, providing a unique perspective on the game and the players.

Johnny Most’s razor-sharp wit and unfiltered opinion made him a beloved figure among basketball enthusiasts. His memorable quotes continue to resonate with fans to this day, capturing the essence of the game and the intensity of the Celtics’ battles. Whether it was praising a player’s skills, criticizing a referee’s call, or conveying the excitement of a thrilling game-winning shot, Most had a knack for finding the right words to express the emotions of the moment.

“Havlicek stole the ball!” This iconic phrase, immortalized by Johnny Most during the Celtics’ epic comeback victory over the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 7 of the 1965 Eastern Conference Finals, is perhaps his most famous quote. The electrifying play by Celtic’s legend John Havlicek turned the tide of the game and demonstrated Most’s ability to capture the essence of a historic moment with his words.

Beyond his memorable catchphrases, Johnny Most also provided insightful commentary on the game itself. He had a deep understanding of basketball strategy and was not afraid to call out players or coaches for their mistakes. His analysis and observations added depth and context to the live broadcasts, making them more than just a play-by-play account of the game.

The Legendary Voice of the Boston Celtics

Johnny Most is widely regarded as the legendary voice of the Boston Celtics. His distinctive and passionate style of commentary endeared him to countless fans and made him an integral part of Celtics basketball for over three decades.

Known for his colorful and energetic play-by-play calls, Most brought the game to life for listeners, creating an unforgettable experience for those tuning in. His enthusiastic delivery and deep knowledge of the sport made him one of the most beloved sports broadcasters of his time.

Most’s iconic catchphrases became synonymous with Celtics basketball. Whether it was his signature “Havlicek stole the ball!” call or his famous exclamation of “Bird steals the ball!” during a critical game, Most had a knack for capturing the excitement and intensity of the moment.

For Celtics fans, Most was more than just a commentator – he was a true symbol of the team’s success and spirit. His dedication to the Celtics and his ability to connect with fans on such an emotional level made him an irreplaceable figure in Boston sports history.

Even after his retirement, Most’s impact on Celtics basketball continued to be felt. His legacy lives on through the countless recordings of his broadcasts, which allow fans to relive the thrilling moments he so masterfully described.

Johnny Most’s voice and passion for the game will forever be remembered as an essential part of Celtics folklore. His contributions to the team and the sport of basketball as a whole are an enduring testament to his status as the legendary voice of the Boston Celtics.

Johnny Most: The Man Behind the Mic

Most was famous for his colorful commentary and his ability to capture the excitement of the game. His catchphrases, such as “Havlicek stole the ball!” and “Bird steals the ball!” have become legendary in basketball history. He had a unique talent for making the audience feel like they were right there in the arena, experiencing the game alongside him.

But Most’s contributions to the Celtics went beyond his play-by-play commentary. He was deeply involved with the team and had a close relationship with many of the players and coaches. He was known for his dedication and was often the first person at the arena and the last one to leave.

Most’s passion for the Celtics was unmatched, and his love for the game was evident in every broadcast. He had a deep understanding of the sport and an encyclopedic knowledge of Celtics history. He was able to provide insightful analysis and was always quick with a witty remark.

Despite his intense and sometimes controversial style, Most was beloved by Celtics fans and respected by players, coaches, and other broadcasters. He was always able to find the right words to capture the moment and bring the game to life.

Johnny Most’s impact on the Celtics and the world of basketball is immeasurable. He helped shape the way the game is broadcasted and his passion and energy continue to inspire generations of sports broadcasters. Most may no longer be with us, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of Celtics fans everywhere.

Classic Calls from Celtics Games

1. “Havlicek stole the ball!”

One of the most famous calls in Celtics history occurred during the 1965 Eastern Conference Finals. In the final seconds of Game 7, John Havlicek made a steal to secure the victory for Boston against the Philadelphia 76ers.

2. “Bird steals the ball!”

In Game 5 of the 1987 Eastern Conference Finals, Larry Bird made a dramatic steal from Isiah Thomas and passed it to a teammate for the winning basket. This play was another iconic moment in Celtics history.

3. “McHale underneath! Oh, tough shot!”

During the 1984 NBA Finals, Kevin McHale made a difficult shot in the paint while being heavily defended. Johnny Most’s excitement captured the intensity of the moment and showcased McHale’s skill and determination.

4. “Tiny driving, scoops, and scores!”

In a game against the Detroit Pistons, Nate “Tiny” Archibald showed off his speed and agility as he made a driving layup. This call highlights Archibald’s ability to maneuver in traffic and finish at the rim.

5. “Russell with the block!”

Bill Russell was known for his defensive prowess, and this call captures one of his signature plays. Russell’s shot-blocking ability was unmatched, and Johnny Most’s declaration of “Russell with the block!” perfectly emphasizes his impact on the game.

6. “Parrish with the slam dunk!”

Robert Parish was a dominant force in the paint, and this call showcases his power and skill. Johnny Most’s excitement adds to the highlight-reel moment of Parish’s thunderous dunk.

7. “McHale with an incredible fadeaway!”

Kevin McHale was known for his wide array of offensive moves, and this call highlights his impeccable footwork and shooting touch. Johnny Most’s description of McHale’s fadeaway as “incredible” adds to the awe-inspiring nature of the play.

8. “Bird for three… and it’s good!”

Larry Bird was one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, and this call captures one of his many three-pointers. Johnny Most’s excitement mirrors the crowd’s reaction as Bird’s shot finds the bottom of the net.

9. “Pierce for the win!”

In a thrilling game against the Miami Heat, Paul Pierce stepped up with a game-winning shot. Johnny Most’s call captures the excitement of the moment as Pierce delivers in the clutch.

10. “Celtics win the championship!

Perhaps the most memorable call of all, Johnny Most’s declaration of the Celtics winning a championship is a phrase that every Boston fan cherishes. It signifies the culmination of hard work, teamwork, and the spirit of the Celtics franchise.

Most Memorable Quotes from Johnny Most

“This is not a basketball game, it’s a war!!”

“Larry Bird is the basketball version of Mozart.”

“If I have any more fun, I don’t think I can take it!”

“Are you kidding me? This is absolutely incredible!”

“Oh, my heavens! What a move by McHale!”

Johnny Most, the legendary voice of the Boston Celtics, was known for his passionate and colorful commentary during games. His unique style and memorable quotes have forever etched his name in the history of basketball broadcasting. From comparing Larry Bird to Mozart to describing plays in his iconic excited manner, Most brought a level of excitement to the game that few others could match. Whether you’re a Celtics fan or just a lover of the sport, these quotes remind us of the energy and enthusiasm Most brought to every game.

The Passion and Intensity of Johnny Most

Johnny Most, also known as the “Voice of the Boston Celtics,” was a legendary sports commentator who brought passion and intensity to every game he called. With his iconic gravelly voice and distinctive New England accent, Most became an indelible part of Celtics basketball history.

Most’s passion for the game was evident in every broadcast. His raw emotion and unapologetic bias towards the Celtics endeared him to fans and made him a beloved figure in the Boston sports community. Most didn’t just announce the action on the court; he lived and breathed every moment, inspiring generations of fans to feel the same intensity and love for the game.

One of Most’s most famous quotes perfectly encapsulates his passion: “And there’s a steal! Underneath to DJ, lays it in! Right at one second left! What an incredible play by Bird! Oh, boy, is he something!” This call, from Game 5 of the 1987 NBA Finals between the Celtics and the Detroit Pistons, captured the exhilaration and excitement Most brought to every broadcast.

Most’s intensity also extended beyond his calls. He was known for his fierce loyalty to the Celtics and his willingness to stand up for the team, often berating referees and opposing players. Most’s colorful commentary and memorable insults towards the Celtics’ rivals made his broadcasts must-listen radio for fans across New England.

Most’s passion and intensity were contagious. He didn’t just announce the games; he made you feel like you were a part of the action. His signature phrase, “Havlicek stole the ball!” became synonymous with Celtics basketball and is still remembered by fans today.

Johnny Most’s passion for the game and his ability to convey that passion through the airwaves made him a true icon. He was more than just a commentator; he was the heart and soul of Celtics basketball for over three decades. His impact on the sport and the city of Boston will never be forgotten.

Johnny Most was known for his intense and passionate commentary.

Johnny Most’s Influence on Celtics Fans

Johnny Most was not just the voice of the Boston Celtics, he was also a beloved figure in the hearts of Celtics fans all around the world. His passionate and charismatic style of commentary made him one of the most iconic voices in sports broadcasting.

Most had a unique ability to capture the excitement and intensity of Celtics games through his words. His famous catchphrases, such as “Havlicek stole the ball!”, “Bird steals it!”, and “This game is in the refrigerator: the door is closed, the lights are out, the eggs are cooling, the butter’s getting hard, and the Jell-O’s jigglin’!”, have become legendary among Celtics fans.

Listening to Most’s commentary was not just about following the game, it was also an experience that brought fans closer to the team. His passion for the Celtics was contagious, and his energetic commentary made every game feel like a must-watch event.

Most also played a crucial role in creating a sense of community among Celtics fans. His voice on the radio or on the TV brought people together, whether they were listening at home, at a local bar, or in the car. Fans would gather around their radios or TVs, hanging on to every word that came out of Most’s mouth, celebrating the victories and mourning the losses together.

Most’s influence extended beyond his time behind the microphone. He became an ambassador for the Celtics and an inspiration for future broadcasters. His passion and dedication to his craft set the standard for sports commentary, and many young broadcasters looked up to him as a role model.

Even after his passing, Most’s influence can still be felt among Celtics fans. His legendary calls are replayed during Celtics games, and his catchphrases are still used by fans to this day. His voice may be gone, but his impact on Celtics fans will always remain.

Iconic Moments in Celtics History

Over the course of their storied history, the Boston Celtics have had many iconic moments that will forever be remembered by fans and basketball enthusiasts. These moments capture the essence of the Celtics, their historic success, and the passion of their fanbase.

  1. Bill Russell’s 11 Championships: Bill Russell is arguably the most iconic player in Celtics history, leading the team to 11 NBA Championships in just 13 seasons. His dominance on the court and ability to rally his team in crucial moments solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.

  2. The Celtics-Lakers Rivalry: The rivalry between the Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers is one of the most storied in sports history. From the 1960s battles between Russell and Wilt Chamberlain to the Magic Johnson vs. Larry Bird matchups in the 1980s, these intense showdowns captivated fans and elevated the sport of basketball.

  3. Havlicek’s Steal: In Game 7 of the 1965 Eastern Conference Finals, John Havlicek made a game-saving steal in the final seconds against the Philadelphia 76ers. This play secured the victory for the Celtics and propelled them to yet another NBA Championship.

  4. The Arrival of Larry Bird: Larry Bird’s arrival in Boston in 1979 marked the beginning of a new era for the Celtics. With his exceptional skills and fierce competitiveness, Bird played a key role in rejuvenating the franchise and leading them to three NBA Championships in the 1980s.

  5. The Big Three Era: In 2007, the Celtics orchestrated a blockbuster trade to form their own “Big Three” with Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen. This move revitalized the franchise and resulted in an NBA Championship in 2008, showcasing the team’s ability to come together and achieve greatness.

These iconic moments in Celtics history are a testament to the team’s rich tradition, their ability to rise to the occasion, and the lasting impact they have had on the NBA as a whole.

Johnny Most’s Legacy and Influence Today

Johnny Most was not only a legendary figure in the world of basketball, but his impact continues to be felt even today. Known as the “Voice of the Boston Celtics,” Most’s enthusiastic and passionate commentary elevated the game for fans and players alike.

One of Most’s lasting legacies is his ability to captivate listeners with his play-by-play style. He had a unique ability to paint a vivid picture of the game through his words, allowing listeners to feel as though they were right in the arena. His iconic phrases and energetic delivery made him a beloved figure among Celtics fans and inspired a generation of aspiring broadcasters.

Furthermore, Johnny Most’s passion for the game extended beyond the microphone. He was known for his unwavering support and loyalty to the Celtics organization, often defending his team and players against opponents or controversial calls. His dedication to the Celtics and his fierce love for the game earned him the respect and admiration of fans and players alike.

Even though Johnny Most passed away in 1993, his influence is still evident in the world of sports broadcasting. His unique style and memorable catchphrases have left a lasting impact on the way basketball games are called and enjoyed. Some of Most’s famous phrases, such as “Havlicek stole the ball!” or “He’s been smoking those cigars again,” are still referenced and recognized by Celtics fans today.

Johnny Most’s legacy and influence can also be seen in the current generation of sportscasters. Many broadcasters today strive to capture the same level of excitement and passion that Most brought to every game. His dedication to the craft and his ability to connect with fans serve as an inspiration for aspiring broadcasters who hope to leave a similar mark on the sports world.

In conclusion, Johnny Most’s legacy and influence continue to be felt in the world of basketball and sports broadcasting. His enthusiastic commentary, unwavering loyalty to the Celtics, and unique style have left an indelible mark on the game. Even today, his memorable phrases and passionate delivery are remembered and referenced by fans and broadcasters alike. Johnny Most will always be remembered as one of the greatest voices in basketball history.

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