The History of the Boston Celtics

The Boston Celtics are one of the most successful franchises in the National Basketball Association (NBA) history, having won 17 NBA championships. The team was founded in 1946, and over the years, it has had several legendary players, coaches, and moments. This article will provide a comprehensive history of the Boston Celtics, from their early struggles to their many championship wins and rivalries. 

One of the early bright spots for the Celtics was the arrival of Bob Cousy in 1950. Cousy, a dynamic and creative point guard, quickly became a fan favorite and one of the team's most important players. He was known for his flashy passing and ball-handling skills, and he helped to bring excitement and energy to the Celtics' games. Cousy was also a skilled scorer, averaging over 20 points per game in his first six seasons with the Celtics.

Another key player for the early Celtics was Ed Macauley. Macauley, a versatile big man, joined the team in 1949 and quickly established himself as one of the best players in the league. He was a skilled scorer and rebounder and helped anchor the Celtics' frontcourt for several seasons. Macauley was also a great team player and worked well with Cousy to help create a potent Celtics offense.

Despite the presence of Cousy and Macauley, the Celtics needed help finding consistent success in their early years. The team needed help attracting fans and generating revenue; there were rumors that the team might fold. However, the arrival of Red Auerbach as coach in 1950 helped to steady the ship and give the team a sense of direction. Auerbach was a wise and innovative coach, and he was known for his ability to motivate and inspire his players.

Under Auerbach's leadership, the Celtics developed a cohesive and effective playing style. They were known for their fast-paced, up-tempo offense, which relied heavily on the skills of Cousy and his teammates. The team also developed a reputation for challenging, physical play on defense, with players like Bill Sharman and Jim Loscutoff leading the way.

The Celtics' hard work and dedication began to pay off in the mid-1950s, as the team started to see some on-court success. They made the playoffs for the first time in 1951 and advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals in 1953. While they ultimately fell short in those postseason runs, the Celtics were beginning to establish themselves as a team to be reckoned with in the NBA.

In 1956, the Celtics made a bold move that would change the course of the franchise's history. They traded away Macauley and draft rights to a promising young player named Cliff Hagan in exchange for the draft rights to Bill Russell, a standout player from the University of San Francisco. The move was met with skepticism and criticism then, but it would prove to be a stroke of genius, as Russell became one of the greatest players in NBA history and led the Celtics to a dynasty.

Sources:

• "Boston Celtics Franchise Index" (Basketball Reference)

• "Boston Celtics History" (ESPN)

• "Celtics at 75: The Early Years" (NBA.com)

• "Red Auerbach and the Boston Celtics: A Match Made in Heaven" (Bleacher Report)

The Bill Russell era of the Boston Celtics is widely considered one of the greatest dynasties in the history of professional sports. From 1956 to 1969, the Celtics won an astonishing 11 NBA championships in 13 years. Russell, who joined the team in 1956, was the driving force behind the Celtics' dominance during this era.

Russell was a dynamic and versatile player known for his defensive prowess, rebounding ability, and leadership on the court. He was a fierce competitor and a tireless worker, and he quickly established himself as one of the best players in the NBA. Russell was also a trailblazer, becoming the first Black head coach in NBA history when he took over the Celtics in 1966.

Under Russell's leadership, the Celtics developed a winning culture and mentality. They were known for their unselfish play, commitment to defense, and ability to perform in clutch situations. The team was also known for its deep bench, with players like John Havlicek, Sam Jones, and Tom Heinsohn providing valuable contributions off the bench.

One of the defining moments of the Russell era was the Celtics' rivalry with the Los Angeles Lakers and their star center, Wilt Chamberlain. The two teams faced off in several memorable playoff series, including the 1962 Eastern Division Finals, which saw the Celtics overcome a 3-2 deficit to win in seven games. The rivalry between Russell and Chamberlain, who were both dominant centers in their own right, added to the drama and intensity of these matchups.

The Celtics' championship runs during the Russell era were marked by some of the greatest moments in NBA history. In 1957, the team won its first championship, defeating the St. Louis Hawks in a thrilling seven-game series. In 1962, the Celtics won their fourth consecutive championship, a feat yet to be matched in the history of the NBA. In 1965, the team overcame a 2-1 deficit in the NBA Finals to beat the Lakers in seven games.

The end of the Russell era came in 1969 when the Celtics won their 11th championship in 13 years. Russell retired after the season, and the team rebuilt and transitioned. However, the legacy of the Russell era lived on, and the Celtics remain one of the most successful and storied franchises in the history of the NBA.

Sources:

• "Boston Celtics Franchise Index" (Basketball Reference)

• "Bill Russell's Impact on the Boston Celtics is Unmatched" (NBA.com)

• "Ranking the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History: Bill Russell" (ESPN)

• "Celtics-Lakers Rivalry Defined the NBA in the '60s" (NPR)

The post-Russell era of the Boston Celtics was marked by transition and rebuilding as the team sought a new identity after its legendary center's retirement. The period lasted from 1970 to 1978, marked by several significant changes and milestones.

One of the key players for the Celtics during this period was John Havlicek. Havlicek, who had been a key contributor on the championship teams of the 1960s, emerged as the team's new leader and go-to player. He was a versatile player known for his scoring, rebounding, and defense, and he helped to keep the Celtics competitive during the post-Russell era.

Another important player for the Celtics during this period was Dave Cowens. Cowens, a scrappy and hard-working center, joined the team in 1970 and quickly established himself as one of the best players in the league. He was a skilled scorer and rebounder, and he helped to provide the team with a much-needed spark during a difficult period.

Despite the presence of players like Havlicek and Cowens, the Celtics struggled to find consistent success during the post-Russell era. They made the playoffs in the first two seasons after Russell's retirement but were eliminated in the first round both times. The team also experienced some off-court turmoil, as head coach Tom Heinsohn resigned in 1971 and was replaced by several different coaches over the next few seasons.

However, the Celtics' fortunes began to improve in the mid-1970s. In 1974, the team won the NBA championship, defeating the Milwaukee Bucks in seven games. Havlicek was named the Finals MVP, and Cowens was a key contributor throughout the playoffs. The Celtics' championship win signaled a return to prominence for the franchise, which helped to re-establish the team's winning tradition.

The Celtics followed up their championship win with another strong season in 1975. They won 60 games during the regular season but were upset by the Washington Bullets in the Eastern Conference Finals. The loss disappointed the Celtics, but it demonstrated that the team was again a severe contender in the NBA.

The Celtics' success during the post-Russell era set the stage for the team's next championship run in the late 1970s. Led by Cowens, Havlicek, and several other key players, the team won the NBA championship in 1976, defeating the Phoenix Suns in six games. The championship win was a testament to the Celtics' resilience and determination, and it demonstrated that the team was once again a force to be reckoned with in the NBA.

Sources:

• "Boston Celtics Franchise Index" (Basketball Reference)

• "The 1970s Celtics: Post-Russell, Pre-Bird" (CelticsBlog)

• "John Havlicek Bio" (NBA.com)

• "Dave Cowens Bio" (NBA.com)

The Larry Bird era of the Boston Celtics is one of the most iconic and successful periods in the franchise's history. Bird, drafted by the Celtics in 1978 and began playing for the team in 1979, quickly established himself as one of the best players in the NBA. Throughout his 13-year career with the Celtics, he helped to lead the team to three NBA championships and cemented his place as one of the greatest players in the history of the NBA.

The bird was known for his all-around game, competitive spirit, and ability to perform in clutch situations. He was a skilled scorer, rebounder, and passer, and he could play multiple positions on the court. The bird was also a team player and worked well with his teammates to create a potent Celtics offense.

One of the defining moments of the Larry Bird era was the creation of the "Big Three," a dominant force that included Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish. The three players, drafted by the Celtics in the late 1970s, formed the core of the team's championship runs in the 1980s. They were known for their unselfish play, ability to score from anywhere on the court, and challenging, physical play on defense.

The Celtics' rivalry with the Los Angeles Lakers and their star player, Magic Johnson, was another defining aspect of the Larry Bird era. The two teams faced off in several memorable playoff series, including the 1984 NBA Finals, which saw the Celtics win in seven games. The rivalry between Bird and Johnson, both dominant players in their own right, added to the drama and intensity of these matchups.

The Celtics won their first championship of the Larry Bird era in 1981, defeating the Houston Rockets in six games. Bird was named the Finals MVP, and he established himself as one of the best players in the league. The team won two more championships in 1984 and 1986, with Bird playing a vital role in both victories.

The Celtics' success during the Larry Bird era was not limited to championships. The team won over 60 games in four seasons, and Bird was named the NBA's Most Valuable Player thrice. He was also a 12-time All-Star and a nine-time member of the All-NBA First Team.

Despite his many accomplishments, Bird's career was also marked by injuries and health issues. He missed significant time during the 1980s and early 1990s due to various ailments, including back and hand injuries. However, he continued to play at a high level whenever he was healthy and helped keep the Celtics competitive throughout his career.

The Larry Bird era of the Boston Celtics ended in 1992 when Bird retired from playing due to his health issues. However, his legacy as one of the greatest players in NBA history and as a critical figure in the history of the Celtics lives on.

Sources:

• "Boston Celtics Franchise Index" (Basketball Reference)

• "Larry Bird Bio" (NBA.com)

• "The Boston Celtics' Big Three: Larry Bird, Kevin McHale and Robert Parish" (ESPN)

• "The Greatest Rivalry in NBA History: Celtics vs. Lakers" (Bleacher Report)

The post-Bird era of the Boston Celtics was marked by transition and rebuilding as the team sought a new identity after its legendary forward's retirement. The period lasted from 1993 to 2003, marked by several significant changes and milestones.

One of the key players for the Celtics during this period was Reggie Lewis. Lewis, a talented small forward, had been a rising star in the league before his untimely death in 1993. He was known for his scoring ability and smooth, effortless play style, and he was seen as the heir apparent to Larry Bird as the face of the Celtics franchise.

However, Lewis' tragic death left the Celtics without a clear leader and path forward. The team struggled in the years immediately following his death, missing the playoffs in four straight seasons from 1995 to 1998.

Despite these struggles, the Celtics remained committed to rebuilding and developing their young talent. The team drafted several promising players during this period, including Antoine Walker, Paul Pierce, and Ron Mercer. These players formed the core of the team's resurgence in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

The turning point for the Celtics came in 1998 when the team hired Rick Pitino as head coach and president of basketball operations. Pitino, who had previously led the University of Kentucky to a national championship, was seen as a transformative figure who could help turn the Celtics around.

Under Pitino's leadership, the team underwent a significant overhaul. He brought in several new players and implemented a unique, fast-paced style of play. However, the team struggled to succeed on the court, and Pitino's tenure was marked by controversy and conflict.

After Pitino's departure in 2001, the Celtics again turned to rebuilding and developing their young talent. Pierce emerged as a star player for the team, and he helped to lead the Celtics back to the playoffs in 2002 and 2003. The team's success during this period set the stage for the arrival of a new star player in the mid-2000s: Kevin Garnett.

The post-Bird era of the Boston Celtics was a challenging period for the franchise and a period of growth and transition. The team's commitment to developing young talent and rebuilding its roster helped to lay the groundwork for the team's future success, and it set the stage for the arrival of a new era of Celtics basketball.

Sources:

• "Boston Celtics Franchise Index" (Basketball Reference)

• "Reggie Lewis Bio" (NBA.com)

• "Paul Pierce Bio" (NBA.com)

• "Rick Pitino's Tumultuous Tenure with the Boston Celtics" (Sports Illustrated)

The New Big Three era of the Boston Celtics began in 2003 when the team drafted promising young forward Paul Pierce. Over the next few years, the Celtics made several moves to build around Pierce, including acquiring critical players like Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen. These three players formed a new Big Three for the Celtics, and they helped to lead the team to its first championship in over 20 years.

The arrival of Garnett and Allen was a turning point for the Celtics. Garnett, acquired in a trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2007, was a dominant force on both ends of the court. He was a skilled scorer, a fierce rebounder, and a tenacious defender, and he helped to anchor the Celtics' defense during his time with the team. Allen, who was acquired in a trade with the Seattle SuperSonics in 2007, was one of the best shooters in the league. He was a threat from anywhere on the court, and he helped to space the floor and create opportunities for his teammates.

A renewed commitment to defense and unselfish play marked the new Big Three era of the Celtics. The team was known for its rugged, physical security and willingness to share the ball and make the extra pass. These characteristics helped to make the Celtics one of the most dominant teams in the league during this period.

The highlight of the new Big Three era came in 2008 when the Celtics won their first championship in over 20 years. Led by Pierce, Garnett, and Allen, the team defeated the Los Angeles Lakers in six games to win the NBA Finals. Pierce was named the Finals MVP, and the team's victory marked a return to dominance for the franchise.

The Celtics continued to be a contender in the years following their championship win. They reached the NBA Finals again in 2010, but the Lakers defeated them in seven games. However, the team's success during this period helped to reestablish the Celtics as one of the premier franchises in the NBA.

The new Big Three era ended in 2013 when Garnett and Pierce were traded to the Brooklyn Nets in a move that signaled further rebuilding for the Celtics. However, the legacy of the new Big Three era lives on, and the team's championship win in 2008 remains one of the most memorable moments in the franchise's history.

Sources:

• "Boston Celtics Franchise Index" (Basketball Reference)

• "The Big Three: How the Celtics Came Together to Capture Their First NBA Title in 22 Years" (Sports Illustrated)

• "Kevin Garnett Bio" (NBA.com)

• "Ray Allen Bio" (NBA.com)

The post-Big Three eras of the Boston Celtics began in 2013 when the team traded away Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce. The move signaled a new rebuilding period for the franchise, as the team sought to find a new identity and develop its young talent.

One of the key players for the Celtics during this period has been point guard Isaiah Thomas. Thomas, who was acquired in a trade with the Phoenix Suns in 2015, quickly established himself as one of the best players in the league. He was a skilled scorer and playmaker, and he helped to lead the Celtics back to the playoffs in his first season with the team.

The Celtics' success during the post-Big Three eras has been built on solid coaching and team-oriented play. Head coach Brad Stevens, hired in 2013, has been a critical figure in the team's resurgence. He is known for his strategic approach to the game and ability to get the most out of his players.

The team's commitment to developing young talent has also been a significant factor in its success. Players like Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, who were drafted by the team in 2016 and 2017, respectively, have emerged as key contributors on the court. They are known for their athleticism, versatility, and scoring ability, representing the franchise's future.

The Celtics have also made several critical acquisitions during the post-Big Three era. In 2017, the team signed free agent Gordon Hayward, a talented small forward who had previously played for the Utah Jazz. Hayward was seen as a critical addition to the team, but injuries marred his time with the Celtics, and he eventually left the team in 2020.

Despite some setbacks, the Celtics have remained competitive during the post-Big Three era. They have made the playoffs in each of the last seven seasons, and they have reached the Eastern Conference Finals three times. However, the team has yet to win a championship during this period.

Looking ahead, the Celtics are well-positioned for continued success. The team's young core of players is talented and hungry, and the team has a strong foundation of coaching and management. While the post-Big Three eras have been marked by transition and rebuilding, it has also been a period of growth and development for the Celtics, and it has set the stage for the team's future success.

Sources:

• "Boston Celtics Franchise Index" (Basketball Reference)

• "Isaiah Thomas Bio" (NBA.com)

• "Jaylen Brown Bio" (NBA.com)

• "Jayson Tatum Bio" (NBA.com)

• "Gordon Hayward Bio" (NBA.com)

The Boston Celtics have a storied history that spans over seven decades. From their early years as a struggling expansion franchise to their dominant runs in the 1960s and 1980s, the Celtics have been one of the most successful and iconic teams in the NBA.

Over the years, the Celtics have been known for their commitment to team-oriented play, challenging physical defense, and ability to develop and cultivate talent. These characteristics have helped to define the franchise and set it apart from its competitors.

One of the most notable periods in the Celtic's history was the Bill Russell era, when the team won 11 championships in 13 seasons. Russell, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history, helped establish the Celtics as a dominant force and cemented the team's place in basketball history.

The Larry Bird era of the Celtics was another defining period for the franchise. Bird, a skilled scorer, rebounder, and passer, helped lead the team to three championships in the 1980s and established himself as one of the best players in the history of the NBA.

The new Big Three era of the Celtics, which began in 2003 with the arrival of Paul Pierce and continued with the acquisitions of Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, marked a new period of dominance for the team. The Celtics won their first championship in over 20 years in 2008 and remained competitive in the following years.

Today, the Celtics are in a new period of rebuilding and growth. The team's commitment to developing young talent and its strong foundation of coaching and management bode well for its future success.

Throughout its history, the Boston Celtics have been a franchise defined by its commitment to excellence, team-oriented play, and ability to adapt and evolve. As the team looks ahead to its future, it will continue to build on these traditions and strive to achieve greatness both on and off the court.

Sources:

• "Boston Celtics Franchise Index" (Basketball Reference)

• "Bill Russell Bio" (NBA.com)

• "Larry Bird Bio" (NBA.com)

• "The Big Three: How the Celtics Came Together to Capture Their First NBA Title in 22 Years" (Sports Illustrated)