Assessing Jersey Number Selections for Celtics Rookies

Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Jayson Tatum (Duke) is introduced as the number three overall pick to the Boston Celtics in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

The Celtics set their summer league roster that will begin on Monday July 3rd. Not only does that mean seeing new players in action, but it also means that we get to see which jersey numbers everyone picked.

We saw Tatum hold up his jersey number in his first press conference, but the Celtics still have four other rookies that will take the court for the first time in Celtic green. Boston’s second round picks showed off their new uniforms a few days ago, and Ante Zizic was added just recently.

The Celtics have a long and storied history that include a record 21 players that have had their number retired. So for rookies, they don’t have the same selection in Boston that they would in other cities. Still, there are a number of options that still work and will be fun for fans to purchase over the next few years.

Jayson Tatum: #11

11 is a good number for Tatum. Previously worn by fan favorites Evan Turner and Glen Davis, Tatum will hopefully be the last to wear the number. Unfortunately there weren’t any single digit numbers available for Tatum to pick from, as most top players usually want. But hey, maybe Demetrius Jackson gets waived and 9 opens up. Still, I like 11 for Tatum as a wing player and possible power forward.

Semi Ojeleye: #37

I really like this for Ojeleye. No Celtics player has gone with 37 before, and it is not a very popular number among NBA players historically. I do like this number for the versatile wing player, as it could turn into anything. It could be a number we easily forget is even available if Ojeleye doesn’t pan out, or it could be a unique fan favorite that we’ll always remember. I’m just glad Ojeleye didn’t pick something in the 50’s.

Kadeem Allen: #45

I don’t like this choice for Allen. It would have been hilarious if he chose to wear 20, but I’m guessing the Celtics are keeping that open for Gordon Hayward. However, I would have like to see Allen take a lower number that would better suit a guard. I feel like 27 would have been the right move, but again, it’s better than something in the 50’s.

Ante Zizic: #54

For a player that is expected to have a legitimate role on the team this year, 54 is an ugly number. Zizic wore 41 in his time in the euroleague, but that currently belongs to Kelly Olynyk. The Celtics’ offseason plans will likely mean that Olynyk will be on a different team next year, so maybe when that’s official Zizic can claim Olynyk’s old number. Unless of course the Celtics decide to retire 41 in honor of the legend that is Kelly O.

Jabari Bird: #26

This is a decision that Allen should have made, and I like 26 for the second round guard. My cousin told me that he should have worn 55 because it’s the closest resemblance to 33 from Larry Bird, but unfortunately Jordan Mickey is sporting that number.

Next: Top Five Celtics to Watch in Summer League

Overall these rookies made good choices, and I can get behind each jersey number, because I know that they are just longing for my approval. Be sure to tune into the Utah Summer League that starts on July 3rd. This Celtics summer squad should be the best one that Boston has ever thrown out on the court.