Get your Boston Celtics NBA Finals gear now
The Boston Celtics tore through the Eastern Conference en route to an NBA Finals berth. The team will now face off against the Mavericks for a chance at another title - the coveted banner no. 18.
The Celtics' championship history began in earnest in the late 1950s under the guidance of coach Red Auerbach. The arrival of Bill Russell in 1956 was the catalyst for the team's success. Russell, a defensive and rebounding powerhouse, transformed the Celtics into a defensive juggernaut. With stars like Bob Cousy, Tom Heinsohn, and John Havlicek, the Celtics won their first NBA championship in 1957, defeating the St. Louis Hawks.
This victory was just the beginning. The Celtics would go on to win an unprecedented eight consecutive championships from 1959 to 1966. This era of dominance was characterized by Russell's unmatched leadership and Auerbach's innovative coaching. The Celtics' fast-break offense and stifling defense set new standards for the game. They consistently outperformed rivals like the Los Angeles Lakers, who they frequently faced in the Finals.
After a brief hiatus, the Celtics returned to prominence in the 1968 and 1969 seasons, securing back-to-back titles. Russell, who had taken on the role of player-coach, retired after the 1969 championship, leaving behind a legacy of 11 championships in 13 seasons – a record that still stands today.
The 1970s saw the Celtics continue their winning ways with the help of Havlicek, Dave Cowens, and Jo Jo White. They won championships in 1974 and 1976, the latter featuring a dramatic triple-overtime victory over the Phoenix Suns in what is considered one of the greatest games in NBA history.
The 1980s ushered in a new golden era for the Celtics, led by Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish. Under coach K.C. Jones, the Celtics won three championships in 1981, 1984, and 1986. The fierce rivalry between the Celtics and the Lakers, featuring Magic Johnson, defined this decade. Their battles in the Finals captivated the basketball world and are still celebrated today.
The Celtics experienced a championship drought in the 1990s and early 2000s, despite having talented players like Paul Pierce. The drought ended in 2008 when the Celtics, under coach Doc Rivers, formed a new "Big Three" with Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen. This trio led the team to their 17th NBA championship, defeating the Lakers in the Finals and adding another chapter to their storied rivalry.
The Celtics have yet to capture another championship since 2008, but they remain a competitive force in the NBA. Their history of success, marked by 17 championships, is a testament to their enduring legacy. From Russell's dynasty to Bird's battles with the Lakers and the resurgence with Pierce, Garnett, and Allen, the Boston Celtics' championship history is a rich tapestry of triumph, tradition, and excellence.
But before the 2024 Finals tip-off and the confetti eventually falls, you should gear up with the latest.
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