John Beckman
From Hoopedia
John Beckman (October 22, 1895 in New York, New York – June 22, 1968 in Miami, Florida) was an early professional basketball player.
A 5'10" sharp-shooting guard, Beckman was a crowd favorite. His unselfishness on the floor made him a favorite among his teammates. He was an excellent free throw shooter; an invaluable skill when a team could choose any player on the court to shoot their free throws.
During his 27 year-long pro career (1914-41) he was known as the "Babe Ruth of Basketball". He is best-known for his time with the Original Celtics (1918-19, 1921-27, 1929). He finished his career with the Cleveland Rosenblums, as did several of his fellow Celtics. He played with the Rosenblums squad that won the American Basketball League championship in 1929.
On Sunday, December 6, 1925 the Celtics defeated the Washington (DC) Palace Club, 35-31, in the first basketball game played at the newly competed Madison Square Garden. At the conclusion of the game Beckman, along with Ray Kennedy of the Palace Club, the two captains, were arrested for breaking the Sabbath.
