John Beckman
Inducted:
1973
Player Stats
5ft 10inch ; 156 pound
Born
October 22, 1895
New York, NY
Died
June 22, 1968
Miami, Florida
Position
Forward
College
NA
John Beckman was one of the first true stars of professional basketball and a dominant figure during the sport's formative years. Nicknamed the "Babe Ruth of Basketball," he built a remarkable career spanning nearly three decades, earning a reputation for his scoring, toughness, passing, and exceptional free-throw shooting. Beckman starred for the legendary Original Celtics, helping establish the team as one of the greatest dynasties in early professional basketball.
Despite never playing college basketball or in the modern NBA, his influence on the professional game was enormous. He won multiple league championships, led the Pennsylvania State League in scoring, and was widely admired for his unselfish style and leadership. Beckman's dedication to teamwork and consistency helped shape the foundation of professional basketball. His outstanding contributions to the sport were recognized with induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1973.
Beckman's Awards and Honor
- 4× Professional League Champion
- Pennsylvania State League Scoring Champion (1920)
- Captain of the Original Celtics
- Nicknamed the "Babe Ruth of Basketball"
- Complete offensive player respected for his scoring ability
NBA Teams
Original Celtics (1918–19, 1921–27, 1929)
NBA Stats
Professional Career:
27 years (1914–1941)
Position:
Forward
Professional Seasons:
27
League Championships:
4
Pennsylvania State League Scoring Champion:
1920