46. Boston Celtics Best Players of All time

The Boston Celtics are one of the most storied franchises in NBA history. Founded in 1946, they have won an unprecedented 17 championships and produced some of basketball’s greatest legends such as Bill Russell, Larry Bird and Paul Pierce.

The Celtics play their home games at TD Garden Arena located near downtown Boston and continue to be a consistent force on the court with numerous playoff appearances over the past decade.

They strive for excellence each season while providing entertaining basketball to millions around world. Whether you love them or hate them, there is no denying that the Celtic’s legacy continues to remain alive today.

1. Shaquille O'Neal

Center

Career

• 4× NBA champion (2000–2002, 2006)
• 3× NBA Finals MVP (2000–2002)
• NBA Most Valuable Player (2000)
• 15× NBA All-Star (1993–1998, 2000–2007, 2009)
• 3× NBA All-Star Game MVP (2000, 2004, 2009)
• 8× All-NBA First Team (1998, 2000–2006)
• 2× All-NBA Second Team (1995, 1999)
• 4× All-NBA Third Team (1994, 1996, 1997, 2009)
• 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2000, 2001, 2003)
• NBA Rookie of the Year (1993)
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (1993)
• 2× NBA scoring champion (1995, 2000)
• 2× IBM Award (2000, 2001)
• NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th)
• No. 34 retired by Los Angeles Lakers
• No. 32 retired by Miami Heat
• Associated Press Player of the Year (1991)
• UPI Player of the Year (1991)
• Adolph Rupp Trophy (1991)
• 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1991, 1992)
• 2× SEC Player of the Year (1991, 1992)
• NCAA blocks leader (1992)
• NCAA rebounding leader (1991)
• No. 33 retired by LSU Tigers
• FIBA World Championship MVP (1994)
• USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (1994)
• McDonald's All-American Game Co-MVP (1989)
• First-team Parade All-American (1989)
• Texas Mr. Basketball (1989)

O'Neal was a dominant center in the NBA for many years. He is one of only three players to score more than 30,000 points and grab more than 1,500 rebounds in their career.

O'Neal has been involved in several controversies over the course of his playing career, including a nightclub brawl and an incident where he threw a basketball at then-teammate Kobe Bryant's head.

O'Neal retired from professional basketball in 2011 after injuries had begun to limit his playtime on the court. Since retiring from playing professionally, O'Neal has focused on becoming a television personality and entrepreneur, most notably owning two restaurants with former Magic teammate Dwight Howard.

In 2017, Shaquille O'Neal was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Shaquille O'Neal is considered one of the greatest players in NBA history. He was a four-time champion and three-time MVP.

He is also one of only five players to win both awards in the same season. O'Neal's career was cut short by injuries, but he still holds many records, including the most rebounds (22,387) and blocks (11,924).

After retirement from playing basketball, Shaq became a commentator for ESPN. In 2018 he served as an ambassador for the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), which honored him with its Ambassador of Peace award that year.

Also Played For: cleveland cavaliers, center basketball

2. Ray Allen

Shooting guard

Career

• 1996–2003: Milwaukee Bucks
• 2003–2007: Seattle SuperSonics
• 2007–2012: Boston Celtics
• 2012–2014: Miami Heat

Ray Allen is a former shooting guard who played in the NBA for 17 seasons. He was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 1996 and spent five seasons with them before joining the Boston Celtics.

Allen won an NBA title with Boston in 2008 and was also named MVP of that year's playoffs. In 2012, he signed with the Miami Heat but only lasted one season before retiring from professional basketball at age 38.

Since retirement, Allen has lent his support to various charities and continues to be involved in sports through coaching opportunities and commentary work on television broadcasts. Ray Allen is a two-time NBA champion and 10-time All-Star.

He was an all-NBA second-team selection in 2005 and won the three-point contest in 2001. Allen played college ball at UConn before being drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in 1996, where he spent most of his career. 

In 2007, Allen was traded to Miami for Shane Battier and Chris Anderson, helping lead the Heat to back-to-back championships that year.

After spending several years with the Boston Celtics, Allen signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder as a free agent during the 2017–2018 season but left after just one game due to an injury.

Also Played For: seattle supersonics, nba 75th anniversary team

3. Nate Archibald

Point guard

Career

• 1970–1976: Cincinnati Royals / Kansas City-Omaha / Kansas City Kings
• 1976–1977: New York Nets
• 1978–1983: Boston Celtics
• 1983–1984: Milwaukee Bucks

Nate Archibald was born on September 2, 1948, in New York City. He attended DeWitt Clinton High School where he played basketball and baseball. 

In 1970, Archibald was drafted by the Cincinnati Royals and started playing professional basketball.

He spent his entire career with the Kansas City-Omaha Kings (1974–1984) where he won two NBA championships ( 1976 and 1980 ). 

After retiring from playing professionally, Archibald became a television analyst for the Kings' home games and also worked as an assistant coach for various teams in Europe.

Nate Archibald was a standout player in the 1970s for three teams: Cincinnati Royals, Kansas City-Omaha Kings, and Kansas City Kings. 

He won two titles with the Celtics (1978–1983) and helped lead them to another championship in 1986. 

Nate also had success with Milwaukee Bucks where he averaged 15 points per game over four seasons from 1983-1984. 

Archibald retired as The 1 all-time scorer for Sacramento Kings and is now enshrined in their Hall of Fame after being inducted into UTEP's Athletic Hall of Honor in 2009.

Also Played For: sacramento kings, nba 70s

4. Pete Maravich

Shooting guard

Career

• High school: , Daniel (Central, South Carolina), Broughton (Raleigh, North Carolina), Edwards Military Institute, (Salemburg, North Carolina)
• College: LSU (1967–1970)
• NBA draft 1970 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Atlanta Hawks
• Playing career: 1970–1980
• Position: Shooting guard
• Number: 44, 7
• 1970–1974: Atlanta Hawks
• 1974–1980: New Orleans / Utah Jazz
• 1980: Boston Celtics
• 5× NBA All-Star (1973, 1974, 1977–1979), 2× All-NBA First Team (1976, 1977), 2× All-NBA Second Team (1973, 1978), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1971), NBA scoring champion (1977), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), No. 44 retired by Atlanta Hawks, No. 7 retired by Utah Jazz, No. 7 retired by New Orleans Pelicans, 2× National college player of the year (1969, 1970), 3× Consensus first-team All-American (1968–1970), 3× SEC Player of the Year (1968–1970), 3× NCAA season scoring leader (1968–1970), NCAA Division I all-time scoring leader, No. 23 retired by LSU Tigers, First-team Parade All-American (1965)
• Points: 15,948 (24.2 ppg)
• Rebounds: 2,747 (4.2 rpg)
• Assists: 3,563 (5.4 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Pete Maravich was one of the greatest players in NBA history and is widely regarded as one of the best ever. He was known for his incredible shooting ability, which made him a dominant force on the court.

Maravich spent most of his career with the Atlanta Hawks, where he helped lead them to several championships. He also played for the New Orleans Jazz and Orlando Magic before retiring in 1988. Pete Maravich died from injuries sustained in a car accident just two years after retiring from professional basketball.

His death has left an indelible mark on both sports and popular culture alike. Pete Maravich was a shooting guard who played in the NBA for nearly 20 seasons. 

He is best known for his scoring ability, which earned him five All-Star appearances and two Second-Team All-NBA honors. Maravich led Georgia to consecutive National Championships as a junior and senior before being drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 1970.

In his first season with the team, he won rookie of the year honors and helped lead them to their only championship win in franchise history that same year. 

After spending four seasons with Atlanta, Maravich was traded to the Utah Jazz where he became an integral part of one of the most successful franchises in league history. 

The Jazz made three straight Finals appearances during his time there, winning championships in 1978 and 1979; both times he averaged over 20 points per game on route to earning MVP awards both years respectively.

Following another brief stint with New Orleans (where he teamed up again with Karl Malone), Pete retired from professional basketball after playing for Boston during 1980–81 season. 

Overall, Maravich finished his career ranked sixth all-time in scoring average at 28 points per game while holding records for Most Points Scored In A Season (1977) and Most Assists Per Game (7).

Also Played For: utah jazz, shooting guard

5. Kyrie Irving

Point guard

Career

• High school: , Montclair Kimberley Academy, (Montclair, New Jersey), St. Patrick, (Elizabeth, New Jersey)
• College: Duke (2010–2011)
• NBA draft 2011 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers
• Playing career: 2011–present
• 2011–2017: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2017–2019: Boston Celtics
• 2019–present: Brooklyn Nets
• NBA champion (2016), 7× NBA All-Star (2013–2015, 2017–2019, 2021), NBA All-Star Game MVP (2014), All-NBA Second Team (2019), 2× All-NBA Third Team (2015, 2021), 50–40–90 club (2021), NBA Rookie of the Year (2012), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2012), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2013), USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2014), FIBA World Cup MVP (2014), McDonald's All-American (2010), First-team Parade All-American (2010)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympics, : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team, World Cup, : 2014 Spain: Team, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2010 San Antonio: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympics
• : 2016 Rio de Janeiro: Team
• World Cup
• : 2014 Spain: Team
• FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• : 2010 San Antonio: Team

Kyrie Irving was born in Melbourne, Australia on March 23, 1992. After playing college basketball at Duke, he was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2013 and went on to win an NBA title with them in 2016.

In 2018, Irving joined the Boston Celtics and helped them reach the playoffs for the first time in over a decade. He is married to Ayesha Curry and has two children: daughter Kiari Lee (born October 12, 2017), and son Tristan Kyrie (born February 8, 2020).

Kyrie Irving is known for his strong shooting ability from long range as well as his Passing & Ball Handling skills off the dribble which have made him one of the most feared players in today's NBA game Kyrie Irving was selected 1st overall in the 2011 NBA draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Kyrie has played for four other teams since then, most notably with the Cavaliers and Boston Celtics where he won an NBA championship in 2016. 

Kyrie is a two-time All-Star and MVP award winner, and also earned Second Team All-NBA honors twice during his time with Cleveland as well as being named to the 50/40/90 club (2021).

Kyrie led Boston to playoffs this season before being traded to Brooklyn Nets earlier this month.

Also Played For: brooklyn nets, duke university

6. Robert Parish

Career

• High school: Woodlawn (Shreveport, Louisiana)
• College: Centenary (1972–1976)
• NBA draft 1976 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8th overall
• Selected by the Golden State Warriors
• Playing career: 1976–1997
• Position: Center
• Number: 00
• As player:, 4× NBA champion (1981, 1984, 1986, 1997), 9× NBA All-Star (1981–1987, 1990, 1991), All-NBA Second Team (1982), All-NBA Third Team (1989), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), No. 00 retired by Boston Celtics, Second-team All-American – AP (1976), First-team Parade All-American (1972), , As coach:, , USBL Coach of the Year (2001)
• Points: 23,334 (14.5 ppg)
• Rebounds: 14,715 (9.1 rpg)
• Blocks: 2,361 (1.5 bpg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006
• Medals, , Representing  United States, Men's basketball, Pan American Games, : 1975 Mexico City: Team competition
• Representing  United States
• Men's basketball
• Pan American Games
• : 1975 Mexico City: Team competition

Robert Parish was a dominant center in the NBA for many years. He helped lead the Golden State Warriors to three championships during his playing career.

Parish also played for the Boston Celtics and New Orleans Hornets, among other teams. In 2006, he was named one of the 50 greatest players in NBA history by league officials.

Robert Parish was a seven-time NBA All-Star and four-time champion with the Boston Celtics. He retired as coach of the Maryland Mustangs in 2001 after guiding them to two NCAA Tournament appearances.

As a player, he helped lead the Charlotte Hornets to their only playoff appearance in 1996 before spending time with Chicago Bulls and finally finishing his career with the Boston Celtics.

Also Played For: golden state warriors, centenary college of louisiana

7. Tony Allen

Small forward

Career

• High school: Crane (Chicago, Illinois)
• College: , Butler County CC (2000–2001), Wabash Valley (2001–2002), Oklahoma State (2002–2004)
• NBA draft 2004 / Round: 1 / Pick
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 2004–2018
• Position: Shooting guard / Small forward
• Number: 42, 9, 24
• 2004–2010: Boston Celtics
• 2010–2017: Memphis Grizzlies
• 2017–2018: New Orleans Pelicans
• NBA champion (2008), 3× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2012, 2013, 2015), 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2011, 2016, 2017), Big 12 Player of the Year (2004), First-team All-Big 12 (2004), Big 12 tournament MVP (2004), Big 12 Newcomer of the Year (2003)
• Points: 6,654 (8.1 ppg)
• Rebounds: 2,884 (3.5 rpg)
• Steals: 1,158 (1.4 spg)

Tony Allen is a three-time All-Star and two-time champion with the Memphis Grizzlies. In his 10-year NBA career, Tony has averaged 17.7 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal per game while shooting 43% from the field and 36% from behind the arc.

He was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2004 after playing college ball at Butler County CC in Illinois. 

With Milwaukee Bucks he won a championship in 2013 as well as a playoff series against Toronto Raptors that went to seven games before they were eliminated finally by Memphis Grizzlies who swept them 4-0 in the 2016 playoffs finals).

After spending one season with Atlanta Hawks he signed with Spanish club Real Madrid for the 2018/2019 season but had to retire due to an injury on December 16th of that same year (a torn Achilles tendon). 

Allen is one of the most decorated players in NBA history with six championship rings and three All-Defensive First Teams. Allen was a key player on some of the Memphis Grizzlies' best teams, including their run to the Western Conference Finals in 2017.

He has also been an excellent defender at both point guard and shooting guard positions throughout his career. One knock against Allen is that he doesn't have much scoring ability outside of mid-range shots, but he's still a very valuable player overall. 

Allen will be 39 years old when the season starts and may not have many more seasons left in him, so it'll be interesting to see how he performs as time goes on. 

Overall, Tony Allen has been an elite defender for over 20 years and should continue to be regarded as one of the all-time greats.

Also Played For: memphis grizzlies, oklahoma state university

8. Kemba Walker

Point guard

Career

• 2011–2019: Charlotte Bobcats / Hornets
• 2019–2021: Boston Celtics
• 2021–2022: New York Knicks
• 2022–2023: Dallas Mavericks

Kemba Walker is a point guard for the Charlotte Hornets and has been in the NBA since 2011. Kemba was drafted 9th overall by the Bobcats in 2011, who traded him to the Hornets just two years later.

Kemba has had three different teams over his six-year career - Charlotte, Boston and New York - but he's still managed to be one of the most consistent players in the league. 

In 2019, Walker led Charlotte to their first playoff appearance in eight seasons; they eventually lost 4-0 to LeBron James and The Golden State Warriors (who went on to win the championship).

Kemba is married with two young children and enjoys spending time with family as much as possible - especially when they're able to travel together. Kemba Walker is a talented basketball player who has been successful both in the NBA and internationally. 

He was drafted first overall by the Charlotte Hornets in 2011 and has since played for several teams, including the Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, and Portland Trail Blazers.

Kemba Walker is known for his explosiveness on offense as well as his defensive abilities; he has twice won an All-NBA Third Team honor. In 2018 he led the Charlotte Hornets to their first playoff appearance in over 20 years.

An impressive achievement given that they were one of the worst teams in the league at that time. Kemba Walker currently plays for the Dallas Mavericks and is still young enough to continue making waves on court.

Also Played For: charlotte hornets, fiba basketball world cup

9. Bill Walton

Center

Career

• High school: Helix (La Mesa, California)
• College: UCLA (1971–1974)
• NBA draft 1974 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1st overall
• Selected by the Portland Trail Blazers
• Playing career: 1974–1988
• Position: Center
• Number: 32, 5
• 1974–1979: Portland Trail Blazers
• 1979–1985: San Diego / Los Angeles Clippers
• 1985–1988: Boston Celtics
• 2× NBA champion (1977, 1986), NBA Finals MVP (1977), NBA Most Valuable Player (1978), 2× NBA All-Star (1977, 1978), All-NBA First Team (1978), All-NBA Second Team (1977), 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1977, 1978), NBA Sixth Man of the Year (1986), NBA rebounding leader (1977), NBA blocks leader (1977), No. 32 retired by Portland Trail Blazers, NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), 2× NCAA champion (1972, 1973), 2× NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player (1972, 1973), 3× National college player of the year (1972–1974), 3× Consensus first-team All-American (1972–1974), No. 32 retired by UCLA Bruins
• Points: 6,215 (13.3 ppg)
• Rebounds: 4,923 (10.5 rpg)
• Assists: 1,590 (3.4 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Walton was a dominant center in the NBA for over 20 years. He won three MVP Awards and two championships with the Boston Celtics. Walton is also known for his philanthropy, donating millions of dollars to charity throughout his career.

In 2015, he announced that he had been diagnosed with dementia and would retire from professional basketball at the end of that season. Despite retiring from basketball, Walton remains an influential figure in American sports and continues to give back to charities through his work as a ambassador.

At 70 years old, Bill Walton remains one of the oldest players ever to compete in an NBA game and has set many records along the way including most rebounds (22,924) and assists (13,360).

q Bill Walton is a two-time NBA champion and five-time All-Star who was also an NCAA champion and three-time National college player of the year.

He ranks among the all-time greats in terms of scoring, rebounds, assists, blocks and steals. Walton's legacy will be remembered most for his philanthropy work with various charities throughout his career.

Also Played For: portland trail blazers, los angeles clippers

10. Bill Russell

Boston Celtics

Career

• 1956–1969: Boston Celtics
• As coach:
• 1966–1969: Boston Celtics
• 1973–1977: Seattle SuperSonics
• 1987–1988: Sacramento Kings

Bill Russell was one of the greatest players in NBA history, winning 12 championships with the Boston Celtics. 

He was also a successful coach, leading the Boston Celtics to more titles than any other team he coached.

In 1966, he became head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers and led them to two consecutive Finals appearances before retiring in 1988. Bill Russell has been inducted into both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the National Football League Hall of Fame.

Bill Russell is considered one of the greatest NBA players of all time. He won 11 championships with the Boston Celtics and was also a five-time MVP and 12-time All-Star.

Bill Russell became an icon for civil rights when he led the Boston Celtics to victory in their historic 1966–67 season, which included a victory over segregationist Philadelphia 76ers.

After retiring as a player, Bill Russell served as head coach of both the Celtics and Seattle SuperSonics before eventually returning to coaching his alma mater, UCLA Bruins, where he remains currently coaching team today.

Also Played For: march madness, bleacher report nba

11. Larry Bird

Boston Celtics

Career

• High school: Springs Valley, (French Lick, Indiana)
• College: Indiana State (1976–1979)
• NBA draft 1978 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1979–1992
• Position: Small forward / Power forward
• Number: 33
• Coaching career: 1997–2000
• As player:, 3× NBA champion (1981, 1984, 1986), 2× NBA Finals MVP (1984, 1986), 3× NBA Most Valuable Player (1984–1986), 12× NBA All-Star (1980–1988, 1990–1992), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1982), 9× All-NBA First Team (1980–1988), All-NBA Second Team (1990), 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1982–1984), NBA Rookie of the Year (1980), NBA All-Rookie Team (1980), 3× NBA Three-Point Contest champion (1986–1988), 2× 50–40–90 club (1987, 1988), AP Athlete of the Year (1986), NBA Lifetime Achievement Award (2019), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), No. 33 retired by Boston Celtics, National college player of the year (1979), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1978, 1979), Third-team All-American – NABC, UPI (1977), 2× MVC Player of the Year (1978, 1979), No. 33 retired by Indiana State Sycamores, No. 33 retired by Springs Valley High Blackhawks, , As coach:, , NBA Coach of the Year (1998), NBA All-Star Game head coach (1998), , As executive:, , NBA Executive of the Year (2012)
• Points: 21,791 (24.3 ppg)
• Rebounds: 8,974 (10.0 rpg)
• Assists: 5,695 (6.3 apg)
• NBA: 147–67 (.687)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, World University Games, : 1977 Sofia: Men's Basketball, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1992 Portland: Men's basketball, Olympic Games, : 1992 Barcelona: Men's Basketball
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• World University Games
• : 1977 Sofia: Men's Basketball
• FIBA Americas Championship
• : 1992 Portland: Men's basketball
• Olympic Games
• : 1992 Barcelona: Men's Basketball

Larry Bird is one of the most decorated players in NBA history. He was a six-time All Star, three-time MVP, and two-time champion. Bird led the Celtics to eight championships during his playing career and is still considered one of the greatest players in league history.

After retiring from playing basketball, Bird went on to coach with Boston for two seasons before moving onto Indiana Pacers where he coached until 1997. 

In 2000, Bird became head coach at UCLA where he stayed for four years before returning to coaching with Boston again in 2006–07 season Larry Bird was one of the most beloved and successful players in NBA history.

He led the Boston Celtics to three championship titles, won multiple MVP awards, and was a 10-time All-Star. Bird's skills as an all-around player were unrivaled, as he could shoot threes well, play defense well, handle the ball well and score inside or outside.

His style of play earned him nicknames such as "The Legend" and "The Hick from French Lick." After retiring from playing in 1992, Bird served two stints as head coach with Indiana Pacers before being named president of basketball operations for the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018.

Also Played For: small forward, nba playoffs best player

12. Jayson Tatum

Boston Celtics

Career

• High school: Chaminade, (Creve Coeur, Missouri)
• College: Duke (2016–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–present: Boston Celtics
• 3× NBA All-Star (2020–2022), All-NBA First Team (2022), All-NBA Third Team (2020), NBA Eastern Conference Finals MVP (2022), NBA All-Rookie First Team (2018), Third-team All-ACC (2017), ACC All-Freshman team (2017), McDonald's All-American (2016), Gatorade National Player of the Year (2016), Mr. Show-Me Basketball (2016)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2020 Tokyo: Team, FIBA U19 World Championship, : 2015 Greece: Team, FIBA U17 World Championship, : 2014 Dubai: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2020 Tokyo: Team
• FIBA U19 World Championship
• : 2015 Greece: Team
• FIBA U17 World Championship
• : 2014 Dubai: Team

Jayson Tatum was drafted third overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2017 NBA draft. Jayson started his career with the Celtics in the 2017-2018 season and has since played a major role for them on both sides of the court.

Jayson is known for his scoring ability, as well as his athleticism and defensive skills. He is expected to be a mainstay in Boston's lineup for years to come, and could very well become one of the league's best small forwards/power forwards Jayson Tatum is an NBA All-Star and National Player of the Year candidate.

Jayson was a McDonald's All-American, Gatorade National Player of the Year, Mr. Show-Me Basketball player of the year as well as a Third Team All-American at ACC school Clemson University in 2017.  

He has also represented USA Men’s Junior National team on multiple occasions and won a gold medal at FIBA Americas U18 Championship in 2018.

In his rookie season, he averaged 23 points per game for Boston Celtics earning him 3x NBA All-Star selections (2020, 2022 & 2023) At 21 years old Jayson is already considered one of the best players in NBA history.

Also Played For: basketball, fantasy basketball

13. Jaylen Brown

Boston Celtics

Career

• High school: Wheeler, (Marietta, Georgia)
• College: California (2015–2016)
• NBA draft 2016 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 2016–present
• 2016–present: Boston Celtics
• NBA All-Star (2021), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2017), First-team All-Pac-12 (2016), Pac-12 Freshman of the Year (2016), McDonald's All-American (2015), First-team Parade All-American (2015), Mr. Georgia Basketball (2015)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2014 United States: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• : 2014 United States: National team

Brown was born in Atlanta, Georgia on October 24th 1996. He attended Wheeler High School and played for the varsity basketball team as a freshman before transferring to California after his sophomore season.

Brown led Cal to back-to-back Pac-12 titles while averaging 17 points, five rebounds and three assists per game during his two years with the Golden Bears. 

As a junior, he averaged 23 points, seven rebounds and four assists whilst leading Cal to their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2004.

Brown was drafted third overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA draft and made his debut with them later that year against the Philadelphia 76ers - scoring 12 points off the bench in 21 minutes of play. 

In 2017–2018, Brown started all 82 games for Boston coming off the bench averaging 11 point 4 rebounds 2 assists 1 steal PER 36 minutes played which placed him 3rd among all rookies behind only Ben Simmons (21 PPG 8 RPG 4 APG 2 SPG) & DeMarcus Cousins (24 PPG 10 RPG 5 APG 1 BSPG).

After starting all 82 games once again in 2018–2019 JaylenBrown’s numbers dipped slightly dropping averages across most categories but still putting up 14PPG 5RPG 3APG on 46MPG over 38GP.

good enough for 13th place amongst shooting guards/small forwards according to ESPN’s RealGM player rankings at time of writing this article.

Also Played For: nba defensive, nba best young players

14. Bailey Howell

Power forward

Career

• High school: Middleton (Middleton, Tennessee)
• College: Mississippi State (1956–1959)
• NBA draft 1959 / Round: 1 / Pick: 2nd overall
• Selected by the Detroit Pistons
• Playing career: 1959–1971
• Position: Small forward / Power forward
• Number: 52, 18, 15, 16
• 1959–1964: Detroit Pistons
• 1964–1966: Baltimore Bullets
• 1966–1970: Boston Celtics
• 1970–1971: Philadelphia 76ers
• 2× NBA champion (1968, 1969), 6× NBA All-Star (1961–1964, 1966, 1967), All-NBA Second Team (1963), Consensus first-team All-American (1959), Consensus second-team All-American (1958), No. 52 retired by Mississippi State Bulldogs
• Points: 17,770 (18.7 ppg)
• Rebounds: 9,383 (9.9 rpg)
• Assists: 1,853 (1.9 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Howell was a two-time All-Star and helped the Pistons win three championships in the early 1960s. After his playing career ended, Howell became an assistant coach with several teams before eventually retiring in 1988.

Bailey Howell is one of only four players to be drafted first overall twice and he remains the last player from Mississippi State to make it into the NBA Hall of Fame. He passed away on January 20th, 2017 at the age of 85 after a long battle with dementia.

Bailey Howell was a two-time NBA champion and six-time all-star. He also won an All-NBA second team award and was consensus first team all American in 1959. 

Bailey Howell retired after playing for the Mississippi State Bulldogs, where he totaled 17,770 points and 9,383 rebounds over his career.

Also Played For: detroit pistons

15. Rajon Rondo

Cleveland Cavaliers

Career

• High school: , Eastern (Middletown, Kentucky), Oak Hill Academy, (Mouth of Wilson, Virginia)
• College: Kentucky (2004–2006)
• NBA draft 2006 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21st overall
• Selected by the Phoenix Suns
• Playing career: 2006–present
• 2006–2014: Boston Celtics
• 2014–2015: Dallas Mavericks
• 2015–2016: Sacramento Kings
• 2016–2017: Chicago Bulls
• 2017–2018: New Orleans Pelicans
• 2018–2020: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2020–2021: Atlanta Hawks
• 2021: Los Angeles Clippers
• 2021–2022: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2022: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2× NBA champion (2008, 2020), 4× NBA All-Star (2010–2013), All-NBA Third Team (2012), 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2010, 2011), 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2009, 2012), 3× NBA assists leader (2012, 2013, 2016), NBA steals leader (2010), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2007), SEC All-Freshman Team (2005), Second-team Parade All-American (2004), McDonald's All-American (2004)

Rajon Rondo is a former point guard who has played in the NBA for over 10 years. He was drafted by the Phoenix Suns and spent four seasons with them before moving to the Boston Celtics in 2009.

Rondo has been a key player for both teams, winning multiple championships and being named an All-Star several times. In 2017, he joined the New Orleans Pelicans on a one-year deal but later opted out of his contract to become a free agent once again.

With so much experience under his belt, there's no doubt that Rondo will be sought after by many teams this offseason - watch out. 

Rajon Rondo is a 2-time NBA champion and 4-time All-Star. Rajon Rondo led the Celtics to two championships in 2008 and 2020, as well as being an all-star every year from 2010 to 2013.

He was also named an All-NBA Third Team member in 2012 and 2016, respectively, while leading the league in assists both years. In 2009 he won his second consecutive Defensive Player of the Year award whilst also finishing third in MVP voting that season behind LeBron James and Kevin Durant. 

After spending time with Dallas (2014–2015) and Sacramento (2015–2016), Rajon returned to Boston for one final run before retiring at the end of the 2017 season.

Also Played For: 2006 nba draft, kentucky basketball

16. Danny Ainge

Shooting guard

Career

• High school: North Eugene (Eugene, Oregon)
• College: BYU (1977–1981)
• NBA draft 1981 / Round: 2 / Pick: 31st overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1981–1995
• Position: Shooting guard
• Number: 44, 7, 9, 22
• Coaching career: 1996–1999
• As player:, 2× NBA champion (1984, 1986), NBA All-Star (1988), John R. Wooden Award (1981), NABC Player of the Year (1981), Consensus first-team All-American (1981), Third-team All-American – NABC (1980), Fourth-team All-American – NABC (1979), WAC Player of the Year (1981), 4× First-team All-WAC (1978–1981), No. 22 retired by BYU Cougars, Second-team Parade All-American (1977), , As executive:, , NBA champion (2008), NBA Executive of the Year (2008)
• Points: 11,964 (11.5 ppg)
• Assists: 4,199 (4.0 apg)
• Steals: 1,133 (1.1 spg), Baseball career
• Second baseman / Third baseman
• Batted: Right, Threw: Right

Danny Ainge was born in 1959 and is the CEO of basketball operations for the Utah Jazz. He played shooting guard in the NBA from 1981 to 1995, winning three championships with Boston Celtics.

After leaving coaching, he served as general manager of the Phoenix Suns from 1996 to 2000 before returning to coaching with the Boston Celtics from 2001 until his retirement in 2017. 

Danny Ainge is a successful NBA coach and player who has been responsible for two championships with the Boston Celtics.

Danny Ainge was born in Utah on November 12, 1962, and played collegiately at Brigham Young University before being drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1981. 

As a player for the Celtics, he helped lead them to back-to-back NBA Championships in 1984 and 1986. He also won numerous accolades including an NBA All-Star selection, John R.

Wooden Award as college basketball’s best player, NABC Player of the Year award from both organizations (1981), WAC Player of the Year award (1981) and four First Team All-WAC selections during his playing career at BYU Cougars (1978–81). 

After ending his playing days with Phoenix Suns in 1995, Danny took up coaching where he led them to three consecutive playoff appearances before eventually retiring following 1999 season with 283 wins – third most all time - 290 losses (.488 winning percentage).

Also Played For: byu cougars men's basketball, phoenix suns

17. Frank Ramsey

Career

• High school: Madisonville, (Madisonville, Kentucky)
• College: Kentucky (1950–1954)
• NBA draft 1953 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1954–1964
• Position: Small forward / Shooting guard
• Number: 23
• 7× NBA champion (1957, 1959–1964), No. 23 retired by Boston Celtics, NCAA champion (1951), Consensus second-team All-American (1954), Second-team All-American – AP, UPI (1952), Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1951)
• Points: 8,378 (13.4 ppg)
• Rebounds: 3,410 (5.5 rpg)
• Assists: 1,134 (1.8 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Frank Ramsey was born on July 13, 1931 in Corydon, Kentucky. He attended high school at Madisonville and played college basketball for the Kentucky Wildcats from 1950 to 1954.

Ramsey was drafted by the Boston Celtics with the fifth overall pick in the 1953 NBA draft and played for them from 1954 to 1964. In 1963, he won an NBA Championship with the Celtics and also appeared in four All-Star games during his career.

After retiring as a player, Ramsey worked as a coach with various teams before joining ESPN as an analyst in 1984 . He died on July 8th 2018 after a long illness at 86 years old Ramsey was a key player on the Celtics' championship teams of 1957 and 1959-1964.

He was also an All-American in 1954, when he averaged 13.4 points per game. Ramsey retired from playing in 1965, but continued to coach with Kentucky Colonels until 1970. His achievements as a player and coach led to him being inducted into the Boston Basketball Hall of Fame in 1984.

Also Played For: 1960–61 boston celtics season

18. Satch Sanders

Career

• High school: Seward Park, (New York City, New York)
• College: NYU (1957–1960)
• NBA draft 1960 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1960–1973
• Position: Power forward
• Number: 16
• Coaching career: 1973–1978
• 8× NBA champion (1961–1966, 1968, 1969), NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1969), No. 16 retired by Boston Celtics, Third-team All-American – UPI (1960), Haggerty Award (1960)
• Points: 8,766 (9.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 5,798 (6.3 rpg)
• Assists: 1,026 (1.1 apg)
• NBA: 23–39 (.371)
• College: 40–60 (.400)
• Basketball Hall of Fame

Sanders was a power forward in the NBA for 14 seasons. He is best known for his time with the Boston Celtics, where he won three championships (1969, 1974, 1976).

After retiring from playing basketball, Sanders served as head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers and Milwaukee Bucks. In 2016, he was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA history by TNT broadcaster Charles Barkley.

Sanders was a great player and one of the greatest Celtics ever. Sanders led Boston to eight championships in eleven seasons, including five straight from 1961-1966. He was an All-Defensive Second Team selection three times and is third all-time in assists for the Celtics with 1,026 total over his career.

Sanders also won a Haggerty Award as well as being selected to three All Star Games (1960, 1962, 1966). Sanders retired after the 1973 season at the age of 38 years old due to injuries sustained during that year's playoffs against Philadelphia 76ers' Julius Erving.

19. Paul Pierce

Small forward

Career

• High school: Inglewood (Inglewood, California)
• College: Kansas (1995–1998)
• NBA draft 1998 / Round: 1 / Pick: 10th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1998–2017
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 34
• 1998–2013: Boston Celtics
• 2013–2014: Brooklyn Nets
• 2014–2015: Washington Wizards
• 2015–2017: Los Angeles Clippers
• NBA champion (2008), NBA Finals MVP (2008), 10× NBA All-Star (2002–2006, 2008–2012), All-NBA Second Team (2009), 3× All-NBA Third Team (2002, 2003, 2008), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1999), NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2010), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, No. 34 retired by Boston Celtics, Consensus first-team All-American (1998), First-team All-Big 12 (1998), Third-team All-Big 12 (1997), 2× Big 12 tournament MVP (1997, 1998), No. 34 jersey retired by Kansas Jayhawks, McDonald's All-American (1995), Second-team Parade All-American (1995), California Mr. Basketball (1995)
• Points: 26,397 (19.7 ppg)
• Rebounds: 7,527 (5.6 rpg)
• Assists: 4,708 (3.5 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2021

Paul Pierce is a retired American professional basketball player. He played for the Boston Celtics from 1998 to 2017 and was a six-time All-Star. Pierce was born in Oakland, California on October 13th, 1977.

After graduating from high school in Inglewood, CA he attended Kansas University where he won two NCAA championships with the Jayhawks before being drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1998.

 In his 17 seasons with the Celtics, Pierce averaged 22 points per game and 5 rebounds per game while shooting 47% from the field overall and 36% from three point range.

On July 9th, 2013 Paul Pierce announced his retirement after playing 20 seasons in the NBA (including playoffs). Since retiring as a player; Paul has started coaching at Baltimore’s famed.

House of Hoops including working alongside current Celtic Kyrie Irving during his rookie season of 2016/17 Pierce married R&B singer Aaliyah back in 2001 but they divorced four years later.

in 2005 after having one child together – son Kiari Dunbar-Pierce who also became an accomplished basketball player himself following father’s footsteps.

In early 2018 it was reported that Paul had been romantically linked to TV personality LaLa Anthony however these reports have since been denied by both parties.

Also Played For: 2009–10 nba season, nba 2000s

20. John Havlicek

Small forward

Career

• High school: Bridgeport (Bridgeport, Ohio)
• College: Ohio State (1959–1962)
• NBA draft 1962 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1962–1978
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 17
• 1962–1978: Boston Celtics
• 8× NBA champion (1963–1966, 1968, 1969, 1974, 1976), NBA Finals MVP (1974), 13× NBA All-Star (1966–1978), 4× All-NBA First Team (1971–1974), 7× All-NBA Second Team (1964, 1966, 1968–1970, 1975, 1976), 5× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1972–1976), 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1969–1971), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1963), NBA anniversary team (35th, 50th, 75th), No. 17 retired by Boston Celtics, NCAA champion (1960), Consensus second-team All-American (1962), Third-team All-American – AP (1961), No. 5 retired by Ohio State Buckeyes
• Points: 26,395 (20.8 ppg)
• Rebounds: 8,007 (6.3 rpg)
• Assists: 6,114 (4.8 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Havlicek was a six-foot-five inch small forward who played 19 seasons in the NBA for the Boston Celtics. Known for his smooth shooting and efficient play, Havlicek is considered one of the greatest players in league history.

He led Boston to five championships during his career and retired as the all-time leading scorer in Celtics history. 

After retiring from playing professionally, Havlicek served as president of basketball operations for the Cleveland Cavaliers before joining the Miami Heat as their vice president of player personnel in 2016.

On April 25th 2019, John Havlicek passed away at 79 years old after a long battle with cancer.. John Havlicek was a 7-time NBA All-Star and 3-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year. 

He is one of only four players to win an NCAA championship with two different schools, Ohio State Buckeyes in 1960 and Boston Celtics in 1976. John Havlicek was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1978, his first year of eligibility.

21. Bob Cousy

Point guard

Career

• High school: Andrew Jackson, (Queens, New York)
• College: Holy Cross (1946–1950)
• NBA draft 1950 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Tri-Cities Blackhawks
• Playing career: 1950–1963, 1969–1970
• Position: Point guard
• Number: 14, 19
• Coaching career: 1963–1973
• 6× NBA champion (1957, 1959–1963), NBA Most Valuable Player (1957), 13× NBA All-Star (1951–1963), 2× NBA All-Star Game MVP (1954, 1957), 10× All-NBA First Team (1952–1961), 2× All-NBA Second Team (1962, 1963), 8× NBA assists leader (1953–1960), NBA anniversary team (25th, 35th, 50th, 75th), No. 14 retired by Boston Celtics, NCAA champion (1947), Consensus first-team All-American (1950), Second-team All-American – AP, UPI, Look (1949), Third-team All-American – AP (1948), No. 17 retired by Holy Cross Crusaders, Presidential Medal of Freedom (2019)
• Points: 16,960 (18.4 ppg)
• Rebounds: 4,786 (5.2 rpg)
• Assists: 6,955 (7.5 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Bob Cousy was a point guard who played for the Boston Celtics from 1950 to 1963. He led the Celtics to three NBA Championships and was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1969.

After retiring as a player, he became head coach of the Boston Bruins in 1973, where he won another championship. Bob Cousy is also known for his commercials which featured him endorsing products such as Pepsi and Chevrolet vehicles.

Cousy was an All-American point guard at Boston College and helped lead the Celtics to 6 NBA championships in nine seasons. Cousy won two MVP awards and was a 10-time All-Star. He also led the Celtics in assists multiple times, and his number 14 retired by the team is still hanging from the rafters of the TD Garden.

After retiring as a player, Cousy went on to coach BC for several years before joining Cincinnati's coaching staff in 1969.

Also Played For: point guard

22. Dave Cowens

Center

Career

• 1970–1980: Boston Celtics
• 1982–1983: Milwaukee Bucks
• As coach:
• 1978–1979: Boston Celtics
• 1984–1985: Bay State Bombardiers
• 1994–1996: San Antonio Spurs (assistant)
• 1996–1999: Charlotte Hornets
• 2000–2001: Golden State Warriors
• 2006: Chicago Sky
• 2006–2009: Detroit Pistons (assistant)

As a player, Dave Cowens was known for his hustle and play-making ability. After retiring as a player, he went on to become a basketball consultant with the Boston Celtics.

In 2005, he was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA history. Dave Cowens is married with two children and lives in Florida Dave Cowens was a 6'10" center who played for the Boston Celtics from 1970-1980.

He won two NBA championships with the Celtics and was named MVP of both games in 1974 and 1976. After playing his final year with Milwaukee, he became an assistant coach with San Antonio before moving on to Charlotte and Golden State as head coaching positions opened up.

Dave Cowens is best known for his high-flying dunks, which helped make him one of the most popular players in franchise history. He retired from playing after 1980 but remained active as a coach until 2009 when he resigned due to health reasons.

Also Played For: florida state university basketball

23. Kevin McHale

Power forward

Career

• High school: Hibbing (Hibbing, Minnesota)
• College: Minnesota (1976–1980)
• NBA draft 1980 / Round: 1 / Pick: 3rd overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1980–1993
• Position: Power forward
• Number: 32
• Coaching career: 2005–2015
• 3× NBA champion (1981, 1984, 1986), 7× NBA All-Star (1984, 1986–1991), All-NBA First Team (1987), 3× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1986–1988), 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1983, 1989, 1990), 2× NBA Sixth Man of the Year (1984, 1985), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1981), NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th), No. 32 retired by Boston Celtics, First-team All-Big Ten (1980), No. 44 retired by Minnesota Golden Gophers, Minnesota Mr. Basketball (1976)
• Points: 17,335 (17.9 ppg)
• Rebounds: 7,122 (7.3 rpg)
• Blocks: 1,690 (1.7 bpg)
• NBA: 232–185 (.556)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Pan American Games, : 1979 San Juan: Team competition, Universiade, : 1979 Mexico City: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Pan American Games
• : 1979 San Juan: Team competition
• Universiade
• : 1979 Mexico City: Team competition

McHale was born in Hibbing, Minnesota and played for the Boston Celtics from 1980 to 1993. He averaged 20.5 points per game and 12 rebounds during his career.

McHale is currently a coach with the Houston Rockets and led them to their first playoff appearance in franchise history this season. Kevin McHale was a three-time NBA champion with the Boston Celtics and helped guide them to their first championship in 1984.

He also won an All-Star MVP award and was named to both the All-NBA First Team and the All-Defensive First Team. After retiring from playing, Kevin McHale served as head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves for two seasons before joining forces with Houston Rockets' owner Leslie Alexander again in 2015.

The five time Coach of the Year winner has led his teams to regular season championships in each of his ten years at the helm, including back-to-back titles this year with Houston Dynamo.

24. Kevin Garnett

Power forward

Career

• High school: , Mauldin (Mauldin, South Carolina), Farragut Academy (Chicago, Illinois)
• NBA draft 1995 / Round: 1 / Pick: 5th overall
• Selected by the Minnesota Timberwolves
• Playing career: 1995–2016
• Position: Power forward
• Number: 21, 5, 2
• 1995–2007: Minnesota Timberwolves
• 2007–2013: Boston Celtics
• 2013–2015: Brooklyn Nets
• 2015–2016: Minnesota Timberwolves
• NBA champion (2008), NBA Most Valuable Player (2004), 15× NBA All-Star (1997, 1998, 2000–2011, 2013), NBA All-Star Game MVP (2003), 4× All-NBA First Team (2000, 2003, 2004, 2008), 3× All-NBA Second Team (2001, 2002, 2005), 2× All-NBA Third Team (1999, 2007), NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2008), 9× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2000–2005, 2008, 2009, 2011), 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2006, 2007, 2012), 4× NBA rebounding champion (2004–2007), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1996), NBA 75th Anniversary Team, No. 5 retired by Boston Celtics, Mr. Basketball USA (1995), 2× First-team Parade All-American (1994, 1995), McDonald's All-American Game MVP (1995), Illinois Mr. Basketball (1995), South Carolina Mr. Basketball (1994)
• Points: 26,071 (17.8 ppg)
• Rebounds: 14,662 (10.0 rpg)
• Assists: 5,445 (3.7 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 2000 Sydney: Team, FIBA Americas Championship, : 1999 San Juan: Team
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 2000 Sydney: Team
• FIBA Americas Championship
• : 1999 San Juan: Team

Kevin Garnett is a well-known NBA player and was one of the best power forwards in the league for many years. He started his career with the Minnesota Timberwolves, before moving to Boston Celtics where he became an all-star player.

In 2016, he announced his retirement from professional basketball after 17 seasons in the league. Kevin Garnett has won several awards throughout his playing career, including three MVP Awards and six championship rings with two different teams.

He is also considered one of the greatest players in Celtics history and will be remembered as one of their most successful players ever. Kevin Garnett is a 10-time All-Star, 3-time MVP, and 2-time Defensive Player of the Year. He ranks ninth all-time in rebounds with 13,521.

KG was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 1995 and spent his entire career there (1995–2007). In 2007, he was traded to Boston Celtics where he won more titles: 2008 NBA Champion and 2013 NBA Finals MVP. 

After 7 years with Brooklyn Nets (2015–2016), KG retired from professional basketball at the age of 38 due to injuries sustained during playoffs against Cleveland Cavaliers which sidelined him for six months.

Also Played For: school basketball, minnesota timberwolves

25. Sam Jones

Career

• High school: Laurinburg Institute, (Laurinburg, North Carolina)
• College: North Carolina Central (1951–1954, 1956–1957)
• NBA draft 1957 / Round: 1 / Pick: 8th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1957–1969
• Position: Shooting guard
• Number: 24
• Coaching career: 1974–1975
• 10× NBA champion (1959–1966, 1968, 1969), 5× NBA All-Star (1962, 1964–1966, 1968), 3× All-NBA Second Team (1965–1967), NBA anniversary team (25th, 50th, 75th), No. 24 retired by Boston Celtics
• Points: 15,411 (17.7 ppg)
• Rebounds: 4,305 (4.9 rpg)
• Assists: 2,209 (2.5 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Jones was a versatile shooting guard who played for the Boston Celtics from 1957 to 1969. Jones helped lead the Celtics to an NBA championship in 1963 and 1965, as well as being named MVP of the 1967 Finals.

After retiring from basketball, Jones worked in broadcasting and then became a coach. He passed away at age 88 on December 30, 2021. Sam Jones was an accomplished player and coach in the NBA. He won 10 championships as a player with the Boston Celtics, and 5 more as a coach.

He was also named to three All-NBA teams during his playing career and retired from the league as No. 24 overall after spending time coaching with New Orleans Jazz (1974–1975).

26. Tom Heinsohn

Power forward

Career

• High school: Saint Michael's, (Union City, New Jersey)
• College: Holy Cross (1953–1956)
• NBA draft 1956 / Pick: Territorial Pick
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1956–1965
• Position: Power forward
• Number: 15
• Coaching career: 1969–1978
• As player:, 8× NBA champion (1957, 1959–1965), 6× NBA All-Star (1957, 1961–1965), 4× All-NBA Second Team (1961–1964), NBA Rookie of the Year (1957), No. 15 retired by Boston Celtics, Consensus first-team All-American (1956), Second-team All-American – Collier's (1955), Third-team All-American – AP, UPI, NEA (1955), No. 24 retired by Holy Cross Crusaders, , As coach:, , 2× NBA champion (1974, 1976), NBA Coach of the Year (1973), 4× NBA All-Star Game head coach (1972–1974, 1976), Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award (2009)
• Points: 12,194 (18.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 5,749 (8.8 rpg)
• Assists: 1,318 (2.0 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• Basketball Hall of Fame as coach
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Tom Heinsohn was one of the most successful players in Celtics history, amassing 14 all-star appearances and three championships. He started his career with the team as a power forward before eventually moving to coach them after retiring from playing.

Heinsohn is also well known for being outspoken on issues such as race and social injustice, something which endeared him to many fans throughout his lengthy NBA career. On November 9th 2020, Tom Heinsohn passed away at the age of 86 after a long battle with cancer.

Heinsohn was a key component of the Celtics dynasty in the 1960s and 1970s. He is widely considered one of the best coaches in NBA history, leading Boston to two championship wins. Heinsohn also has a strong record with Holy Cross, where he coached for over three decades before retiring in 2006.

27. Marcus Smart

Guard

Career

• High school: Marcus (Flower Mound, Texas)
• College: Oklahoma State (2012–2014)
• NBA draft 2014 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 2014–present
• 2014–present: Boston Celtics
• 2014: →Maine Red Claws
• NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2022), 3× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2019, 2020, 2022), NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2015), Consensus second-team All-American (2013), Third-team All-American – NABC (2014), Big 12 Player of the Year (2013), 2× First-team All-Big 12 (2013, 2014), USBWA National Freshman of the Year (2013), Big 12 Freshman of the Year (2013), McDonald's All-American (2012), Texas Mr. Basketball (2012)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA World U19 Championship, : 2013 Czech Republic: National team, FIBA Americas U18 Championship, : 2012 Brazil: National team
• Men's basketball
• Representing  United States
• FIBA World U19 Championship
• : 2013 Czech Republic: National team
• FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• : 2012 Brazil: National team

Marcus Smart is a versatile point guard and shooting guard who was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2014. In his rookie season, Marcus Smart averaged 8.8 points, 4 assists, 2 rebounds and 1 steal per game while playing for the Maine Red Claws of the NBA Development League.

His breakout year came in 2016–17 when he led all Eastern Conference point guards with 18 triple doubles (tied with Kyrie Irving). He also finished second in MVP voting that season behind Russell Westbrook. 

In 2018–19, Marcus Smart helped lead the Celtics to their first title since 1986 as well as an appearance in the 2019 Finals where they were defeated by LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers Smart is a two-time NBA All-Defensive First Team selection and an Olympic gold medalist.

Smart has been widely considered one of the best defenders in the league, ranking third in steals per game for his career with 2.1 spg. 

After being drafted by the Boston Celtics with the sixth pick in 2013, he quickly emerged as one of their top players and led them to a championship in 2018. 

Smart's ability to shut down opposing scorers makes him an essential part of any team's defense, and he will look to continue that success on Thursday night against LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Also Played For: nba 2k18

28. Jo Jo White

Point guard

Career

• High school: McKinley (St. Louis, Missouri)
• College: Kansas (1965–1969)
• NBA draft 1969 / Round: 1 / Pick: 9th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1969–1981
• Position: Point guard
• Number: 10, 12
• 1969–1979: Boston Celtics
• 1979–1980: Golden State Warriors
• 1980–1981: Kansas City Kings
• 2× NBA champion (1974, 1976), NBA Finals MVP (1976), 7× NBA All-Star (1971–1977), 2× All-NBA Second Team (1975, 1977), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1970), No. 10 retired by Boston Celtics, 2× Consensus second-team All-American (1968, 1969), No. 15 jersey retired by Kansas Jayhawks
• Points: 14,399 (17.2 ppg)
• Rebounds: 3,345 (4.0 rpg)
• Assists: 4,095 (4.9 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the  United States, Olympic Games, : 1968 Mexico City: Team competition, Pan American Games, : 1967 Winnipeg: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing the  United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1968 Mexico City: Team competition
• Pan American Games
• : 1967 Winnipeg: Team competition

Jo Jo White was a highly decorated point guard in the NBA for over 20 years. He is best known for his time with the Boston Celtics, where he won five championships and was an All-Star ten times.

White also played briefly with the Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Lakers before ending his career with the Utah Jazz. White passed away at 71 after a long battle with heart disease, leaving behind a legacy as one of basketball's greatest players ever.

Jo Jo White is a former NBA player who won two championships with the Golden State Warriors in 1974 and 1976. He was also an All-Star and Second Team All-NBA selection over his career, as well as being consensus second team all American twice. 

White retired from playing in 1979, but continued to work in coaching until he passed away at the age of 79 in 2016.

29. Bill Sharman

Shooting guard

Career

• High school: Porterville (Porterville, California)
• College: USC (1946–1950)
• NBA draft 1950 / Round: 2 / Pick: 17th overall
• Selected by the Washington Capitols
• Playing career: 1950–1961
• Position: Shooting guard
• Number: 10, 21
• Coaching career: 1961–1976
• As player:, 4× NBA champion (1957, 1959–1961), 8× NBA All-Star (1953–1960), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1955), 4× All-NBA First Team (1956–1959), 3× All-NBA Second Team (1953, 1955, 1960), NBA anniversary team (25th, 50th, 75th), No. 21 retired by Boston Celtics, Consensus first-team All-America (1950), 2× First-team All-PCC (1949, 1950), No. 11 retired by USC Trojans, , As coach:, , NBA champion (1972), ABA champion (1971), ABL champion (1962), NBA Coach of the Year (1972), ABA Coach of the Year (1970), 3× NBA All-Star Game head coach (1968, 1972, 1973), , As executive:, , 5× NBA champion (1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988)
• Points: 12,665 (17.8 ppg)
• Rebounds: 2,779 (3.9 rpg)
• Assists: 2,101 (3.0 apg)
• NBA & ABA: 466–353 (.569)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• Basketball Hall of Fame as coach
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Sharman was born in Abilene, Texas, and attended high school at Porterville. He played college basketball for USC from 1946 to 1950 and was drafted by the Washington Capitols in the 1950 NBA draft.

Sharman spent five seasons with the Capitols before joining the Boston Celtics in 1955. He later played for Philadelphia, San Francisco, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks before retiring from playing professional basketball in 1961.

Sharman served as a coach with various teams including the Utah Stars (1976–1977), Milwaukee Bucks (1978–1979) and Portland Trail Blazers (1980). After his coaching career ended he continued to work as an adviser for several organizations until his death aged 87 years old in 2013.

Sharman was a player for the Washington Capitols and Boston Celtics, amassing multiple accolades along the way. He is most famous for being an NBA champion with both of his teams - 1957 with the Capitols and 1959-1961 with the Celtics. 

Sharman also won an NBA All-Star Game MVP award in 1955 and was named to three All-NBA First Teams (1956-1959).

Additionally, he was consensus first team all America in 1950. After retiring as a player, Sharman coached two different teams: Cleveland Pipers in 1961-62 and San Francisco Warriors from 1966 to 1968 before returning to coaching Lakers from 1971 until 1976.

where they reached 3 Finals appearances (1971, 1973, 1974) but could not win any title during that span.

Also Played For: university of southern california basketball

30. Dennis Johnson

Point guard

Career

• High school: Dominguez (Compton, California)
• College: , LA Harbor College (1973–1975), Pepperdine (1975–1976)
• NBA draft 1976 / Round: 2 / Pick: 29th overall
• Selected by the Seattle SuperSonics
• Playing career: 1976–1990
• Position: Point guard / Shooting guard
• Number: 24, 3
• Coaching career: 1993–2007
• 3× NBA champion (1979, 1984, 1986), NBA Finals MVP (1979), 5× NBA All-Star (1979–1982, 1985), All-NBA First Team (1981), All-NBA Second Team (1980), 6× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1979–1983, 1987), 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1984–1986), No. 3 retired by Boston Celtics
• Points: 15,535 (14.1 ppg)
• Assists: 5,499 (5.0 apg)
• Steals: 1,477 (1.3 spg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player

Johnson was a highly-talented point guard and shooting guard in the NBA. He was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in 1976 and spent most of his career with them.

Johnson is best known for leading the Boston Celtics to their first championship in 86, including an iconic Game 7 performance against John Stockton and Utah Jazz.

Johnson also played for Orlando Magic, San Antonio Spurs, Los Angeles Clippers and New York Knicks during his professional career. 

Dennis Johnson died from heart failure on February 22nd, 2007 at age 52 after a long battle with illness Dennis Johnson was a 7-time NBA All-Star and 3x champion.

Dennis Johnson played for the Seattle SuperSonics, Phoenix Suns, Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Clippers during his career. 

After retiring as a player in 2007, Dennis Johnson became an assistant coach with the LA Clippers before becoming head coach of Austin Toros in 2008. In 2010, he was named interim head coach of the Sacramento Kings after Rick Adelman resigned due to health reasons.

He held this position until early 2011 when he left to become an assistant coach with Golden State Warriors under Mark Jackson where he remained until 2014 when he retired from coaching altogether at age 59 years old.

Also Played For: oklahoma city thunder

31. Ed Macauley

Center

Career

• High school: St. Louis University HS, (St. Louis, Missouri)
• College: Saint Louis (1945–1949)
• BAA draft 1949 / Pick: Territorial
• Selected by the St. Louis Bombers
• Playing career: 1949–1959
• Position: Center / Power forward
• Number: 50, 22, 20
• Coaching career: 1958–1960
• As player:, NBA champion (1958), 7× NBA All-Star (1951–1957), NBA All-Star Game MVP (1951), 3× All-NBA First Team (1951–1953), All-NBA Second Team (1954), No. 22 retired by Boston Celtics, Helms Foundation Player of the Year (1948), 2× Consensus first-team All-American (1948, 1949), Third-team All-American – Helms (1947), 3× First-team All-MVC (1947–1949), No. 50 retired by Saint Louis Billikens, , As coach:, , 2× NBA All-Star Game head coach (1959, 1960)
• Points: 11,234 (17.5 ppg)
• Rebounds: 4,324 (7.5 rpg)
• Assists: 2,079 (3.2 apg)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006

Ed Macauley was born on March 22, 1928 in St. Louis, Missouri. He attended high school at Saint Louis University HS and played basketball for the Saint Louis Bombers of the BAA (now NBA) from 1949 to 1959.

In 1959, he was drafted by the St. Louis Bombers and played alongside Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West during their legendary careers with the team. 

After retiring as a player, Macauley served as president of basketball operations for the Portland Trail Blazers from 1988 to 1991 before becoming head coach of his alma mater Saint Louis in 1993 until his retirement in 2001.

Ed Macauley passed away on November 8th 2011 at age 83 after a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease Ed Macauley was a player in the NBA for 14 seasons, and served as head coach of the St. Louis Hawks for just one season before retiring in 1960. 

Ed Macauley is most famous for being an all-star player with the Boston Celtics, winning three championships during his career. After retirement from playing, Ed Macauley spent several years coaching at various levels before joining the Atlanta Hawks staff in 1968.

Also Played For: st louis university basketball

32. Reggie Lewis

Career

• High school: Paul Laurence Dunbar, (Baltimore, Maryland)
• College: Northeastern (1983–1987)
• NBA draft 1987 / Round: 1 / Pick: 22nd overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1987–1993
• Position: Shooting guard
• Number: 35
• 1987–1993: Boston Celtics
• NBA All-Star (1992), No. 35 retired by Boston Celtics, 3× ECAC North Player of the Year (1985–1987), ECAC North Rookie of the Year (1984), 2× ECAC North tournament MVP (1985, 1987), No. 35 retired by Northeastern Huskies
• Points: 7,902 (17.6 ppg)
• Rebounds: 1,938 (4.3 rpg)
• Assists: 1,153 (2.6 apg)

Reggie Lewis was a shooting guard who played for the Boston Celtics from 1987-1993. Reggie Lewis led the Celtics to two championships in 1988 and 1989, becoming one of only three players (along with Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant) to win back-to-back titles in NBA history.

Reggie Lewis also won an Olympic gold medal as a member of the United States men's basketball team at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. 

In 1993, Reggie Lewis died from injuries sustained in a car accident just before he was set to enter his fourth season with the Celtics. He had been considered one of the best young players in NBA history at that point.

Today, there is a street named after him near Northeastern University where he attended school Reggie Lewis was a dominant player in the NBA for many years, and he is still remembered fondly by Celtics fans. 

Reggie Lewis was a key member of the Boston Celtics' title teams in the early 1990s, and he was also an all-star selection twice. After playing his entire career with the Boston Celtics, Lewis retired after the 1993 season.

In addition to his stellar play on court, Lewis was also highly respected for his character and leadership abilities off of it. 

He currently works as a basketball commentator for NESN television network in Massachusetts. Reggie Lewis will always be remembered as one of the greatest players to ever don an NBA uniform.

33. Cedric Maxwell

Career

• High school: Kinston (Kinston, North Carolina)
• College: Charlotte (1973–1977)
• NBA draft 1977 / Round: 1 / Pick: 12th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1977–1988
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 30, 31, 19, 18
• 2× NBA champion (1981, 1984), NBA Finals MVP (1981), No. 31 retired by Boston Celtics, Third-team All-American – UPI (1977), Sun Belt Player of the Year (1977), First-team All-Sun Belt (1977), No. 33 retired by Charlotte 49ers
• Points: 10,465 (12.5 ppg)
• Rebounds: 5,261 (6.3 rpg)
• Assists: 1,862 (2.2 apg)

Cedric Maxwell was a highly successful small forward in the NBA for over a decade. He started his career with the Boston Celtics, where he became one of their most consistent players and led them to multiple championships.

Maxwell also had success playing for other teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Lakers, before retiring in 1988. After retirement, he worked as an analyst on various NBA broadcasts and served as a basketball ambassador for several organizations.

In 2017, Cedric Maxwell was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History by ESPN。 Maxwell was a two-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Clippers in 1981 and 1984. Maxwell also won an NBA Finals MVP Award in 1981 and was a Third Team All American at UPI in 1977.

After playing for the Boston Celtics, he then played for the Charlotte 49ers before retiring from professional basketball in 1995.

34. Don Nelson

Career

• High school: Rock Island (Rock Island, Illinois)
• College: Iowa (1959–1962)
• NBA draft 1962 / Round: 3 / Pick: 17th overall
• Selected by the Chicago Zephyrs
• Playing career: 1962–1976
• Position: Small forward
• Number: 44, 20, 19
• Coaching career: 1976–2010
• As player:, 5× NBA champion (1966, 1968, 1969, 1974, 1976), No. 19 retired by Boston Celtics, Third-team All-American – AP, NABC, UPI (1962), , As coach:, , 3× NBA Coach of the Year (1983, 1985, 1992), 2× NBA All-Star Game head coach (1992, 2002), Top 10 Coaches in NBA History, Top 15 Coaches in NBA History
• Points: 10,898 (10.3 ppg)
• Rebounds: 5,192 (4.9 rpg)
• Assists: 1,526 (1.4 apg)
• NBA: 1335–1063 (.557)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as coach
• Medals, , Head Coach for  United States, Representing  United States, FIBA World Championship, : 1994 Toronto: Team competition
• Head Coach for  United States
• Representing  United States
• FIBA World Championship
• : 1994 Toronto: Team competition

Don Nelson is a retired American professional basketball player who played for the Chicago Zephyrs, Milwaukee Bucks, and Golden State Warriors. 

He was drafted by the Chicago Zephyrs in the 1962 NBA draft and spent his entire playing career with them before joining the Milwaukee Bucks in 1976.

Nelson won two championships as a player with both the Philadelphia 76ers (1982) and Houston Rockets (1994). After leaving coaching he became president of Basketball Operations for the Dallas Mavericks from 2000 to 2002 before returning to Golden State as an assistant coach in 2007. 

In 2010 he took over as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs after they fired Rick Carlisle and led them to their first championship in four years later that year.

After playing collegiate basketball at the University of North Carolina, Don Nelson became head coach with the Chicago Zephyrs in 1962.

He led Milwaukee to back-to-back NBA titles in 1971 and 1972 before joining Boston as an assistant under Red Auerbach. After a successful stint as head coach of Golden State from 1995 to 1996, he took over Dallas for two seasons before returning to Golden State in 2001. 

In 2003, he was given his first coaching job outside of the United States when he was named head coach of Real Madrid of Spain's Liga ACB.

However, after one season he returned to the U.S., taking over San Antonio Spurs' staff midway through 2005–06 campaign but resigning due to health concerns just weeks into 2006–07 season.

On May 17th 2010, it was announced that Nelson had been hired by Mike D'Antoni on an interim basis as head coach for the New York Knicks following Phil Jackson's departure which ended up lasting until December 15th 2013. 

He is currently serving as an assistant coach with Team USA during their preparations for the 2016 Summer Olympics.

35. KC Jones

Career

• High school: Commerce, (San Francisco, California)
• College: San Francisco (1952–1956)
• NBA draft 1956 / Round: 2 / Pick: 13th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1958–1967
• Position: Point guard
• Number: 27, 25
• Coaching career: 1967–1998
• As player:, 8× NBA champion (1959–1966), No. 25 retired by Boston Celtics, 2× NCAA champion (1955, 1956), Consensus second-team All-American (1956), No. 4 retired by San Francisco Dons, , As assistant coach:, , 2× NBA champion (1972, 1981), , As coach:, , 2× NBA champion (1984, 1986), 5× NBA All-Star Game head coach (1975, 1984–1987), Top 15 Coaches in NBA History
• Points: 5,011 (7.4 ppg)
• Rebounds: 2,399 (3.5 rpg)
• Assists: 2,908 (4.3 apg)
• ABA & NBA: 552–306 (.643)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as player
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2006
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing the United States, Olympic Games, : 1956 Melbourne: Team competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing the United States
• Olympic Games
• : 1956 Melbourne: Team competition

KC Jones was a point guard who played in the NBA for 27 seasons, from 1958 to 1967. He was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1956 and spent most of his career with them.

KC Jones coached the Golden State Warriors from 1998 to 2002 and then served as an assistant coach for the Dallas Mavericks until he retired in 2018. KC Jones was a player for the Boston Celtics during the late 1950s and early 1960s.

During his playing career, he won 8 NBA championships with the team. He later became an assistant coach with Brandeis University and Harvard before joining the Los Angeles Lakers as an assistant in 1971. 

After two years at Lakerland, he joined the San Diego Conquistadors of the American Basketball Association (ABA) as head coach in 1973 before returning to coaching duties with Boston in 1976.

In 1988, he moved to Seattle where he served as an assistant to general manager Rick Majerus until 1990 when he was named head coach of the SuperSonics but only lasted one season before being replaced by Pat Riley that year. 

Jones returned to lead Boston's development league affiliate New England Blizzard from 1997-1998 while continuing his work as a basketball analyst on television broadcasts thereafter.

36. Antoine Walker

Power forward

Career

• High school: Mount Carmel (Chicago, Illinois)
• College: Kentucky (1994–1996)
• NBA draft 1996 / Round: 1 / Pick: 6th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1996–2012
• Position: Power forward
• Number: 8, 88, 24
• 1996–2003: Boston Celtics
• 2003–2004: Dallas Mavericks
• 2004–2005: Atlanta Hawks
• 2005: Boston Celtics
• 2005–2007: Miami Heat
• 2007–2008: Minnesota Timberwolves
• 2010: Mets de Guaynabo
• 2010–2012: Idaho Stampede
• NBA champion (2006), 3× NBA All-Star (1998, 2002, 2003), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1997), NCAA champion (1996), First-team All-SEC (1996), SEC tournament MVP (1995), McDonald's All-American (1994), First-team Parade All-American (1994)
• Points: 15,647 (17.5 ppg)
• Rebounds: 6,891 (7.7 rpg)
• Assists: 3,170 (3.5 apg)

Antoine Walker was a player in the NBA for 10 seasons, playing for the Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks. Walker is best known for his time with the Boston Celtics, where he won two championships (1996 and 2008).

After leaving Boston, Walker played several seasons with the Mavericks before retiring at the end of 2012. In addition to basketball, Antoine Walker has also competed in track and field competitions. 

Antoine Walker currently coaches youth basketball in Chicago Antoine Walker is a three-time NBA All-Star and winner of an NBA championship in 2006.

Walker was a dominant player at the college level, winning both an NCAA Championship and First Team All-SEC honors while at the University of Kentucky. 

Antoine Walker's career ended prematurely due to injuries, but he still holds many records and accolades from his time in the league.

37. Paul Silas

Power forward

Career

• High school: McClymonds (Oakland, California)
• College: Creighton (1961–1964)
• NBA draft 1964 / Round: 2 / Pick: 10th overall
• Selected by the St. Louis Hawks
• Playing career: 1964–1980
• Position: Power forward
• Number: 29, 12, 35, 36
• Coaching career: 1980–2012
• 3× NBA champion (1974, 1976, 1979), 2× NBA All-Star (1972, 1975), 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1975, 1976), 3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1971–1973), Second-team All-American – NABC (1964), Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1964), No. 35 retired by Creighton Bluejays, NCAA rebounding leader (1963), Second-team Parade All-American (1960), California Mr. Basketball (1960)
• Points: 11,782 (9.4 ppg)
• Rebounds: 12,357 (9.9 rpg)
• Assists: 2,572 (2.1 apg)
• NBA: 387–488 (.442)
• College Basketball Hall of Fame, Inducted in 2017

Paul Silas was a dominant power forward in the NBA for many years. He played for the St. Louis Hawks, Seattle SuperSonics, Philadelphia 76ers and Milwaukee Bucks during his playing career.

After retiring from professional basketball, he became a successful coach with stints with the Chicago Bulls, Boston Celtics and Charlotte Hornets. He passed away on December 10th 2022 at the age of 79 after a long battle with cancer.

Paul Silas was a three-time NBA champion with the St. Louis Hawks, Phoenix Suns, and Boston Celtics. He also won an Olympic Gold Medal as a member of the US Men’s Basketball Team in 1976. 

After retiring from playing basketball, Paul Silas became a successful coach for several teams including the San Diego Clippers, New Jersey Nets (assistant), and Phoenix Suns (assistant).

In 2010 he took over as head coach of the Charlotte Bobcats where he led them to their first ever playoff appearance but was subsequently fired midseason in 2012 after posting losing records in each of his two seasons at the helm.

38. Isaiah Thomas

Point guard

Career

• 2011–2014: Sacramento Kings
• 2014–2015: Phoenix Suns
• 2015–2017: Boston Celtics
• 2017–2018: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2018: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2018–2019: Denver Nuggets
• 2019–2020: Washington Wizards
• 2021: New Orleans Pelicans
• 2021: Grand Rapids Gold
• 2021: Los Angeles Lakers
• 2021–2022: Dallas Mavericks
• 2022: Grand Rapids Gold
• 2022: Charlotte Hornets

Isaiah Thomas is a veteran point guard who has played in the NBA for six seasons. He was drafted by the Sacramento Kings in 2011 and spent three seasons with them before being traded to the Washington Wizards in 2016.

In 2018, he led Washington to an appearance in the playoffs and earned his first career All-Star nomination. 

Thomas signed a two-year contract with Boston Celtics in 2019 and will be their starting point guard this season Isaiah Thomas spent six seasons with the Sacramento Kings before being traded to Phoenix in 2014.

In his two years with Phoenix, he was an All-Star and won a championship. After spending one season with the Boston Celtics, Isaiah was traded to Cleveland in 2017 where he led the Cavaliers to their first ever NBA Finals appearance. 

He then signed with the Lakers for the 2018-2019 season but missed most of it due to injury. 

Thomas has been incredibly productive throughout his career averaging 27 points per game over 6 seasons which includes 2 All-Star appearances and 1 championship victory (which came as a member of Cleveland). 

Isaiah is known for his explosive scoring ability both from inside and outside of the arc; this has earned him numerous accolades including 2nd all time in 3 point field goals made.

With only 4 years left on his contract, we can expect big things from "The King" as he looks to cement himself among history's greatest players.

39. Kendrick Perkins

Center

Career

• High school: Clifton J. Ozen, (Beaumont, Texas)
• NBA draft 2003 / Round: 1 / Pick: 27th overall
• Selected by the [[Golden State Warriors ]]
• Playing career: 2003–2018
• Position: Center
• Number: 43, 5, 3, 21
• 2003–2011: Boston Celtics
• 2011–2015: Oklahoma City Thunder
• 2015: Cleveland Cavaliers
• 2015–2016: New Orleans Pelicans
• 2017–2018: Canton Charge
• 2018: Cleveland Cavaliers
• NBA champion (2008), McDonald's All-American (2003), First-team Parade All-American (2003), Second-team Parade All-American (2002), Texas Mr. Basketball (2003)
• Points: 4,214 (5.4 ppg)
• Rebounds: 4,532 (5.8 rpg)
• Blocks: 903 (1.2 bpg)

Perkins was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 2003 and played for them until 2018. Perkins is best known for his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he helped lead them to two championships in 2012 and 2017.

Perkins has also had stints with the Boston Celtics, Memphis Grizzlies, New Orleans Pelicans, Dallas Mavericks, Atlanta Hawks and Sacramento Kings during his NBA career. In 2018, Perkins signed with the Turkish club [[Anadolu Efes]] after spending one season with the Miami Heat.

Perkins was a key player on the 2008 Boston Celtics championship team. Perkins played for five teams in nine seasons, including stints with Oklahoma City and Cleveland before joining New Orleans this season. 

Perkins is known for his rebounding and block numbers, which are both above average for a center.

40. Grant Williams

Forward

Career

• High school: Providence Day School
• College: Tennessee (2016–2019)
• NBA draft 2019 / Round: 1 / Pick: 22nd overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 2019–present
• 2019–present: Boston Celtics
• Consensus first-team All-American (2019), 2× SEC Player of the Year – Coaches (2018, 2019), SEC Player of the Year – AP (2019), 2× First-team All-SEC (2018, 2019), SEC All-Freshman Team – Coaches (2017)

Grant Williams was born on November 30, 1998 in Gotham City. Grant Williams played high school basketball for Providence Day School and college basketball for Tennessee.

In 2019, Grant Williams was drafted by the Boston Celtics with the 22nd overall pick in the NBA draft. As of February 2019, Grant Williams is playing power forward for the Celtics in the NBA.

Grant Williams was selected by the Boston Celtics in the 2019 NBA Draft. Grant Williams is a consensus first-team All-American and 2x SEC Player of the Year. He has also been named First-team All-SEC twice and AP Player of the Year once.

Williams is averaging 21 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists per game this season with Boston Celtics

Also Played For: university of tennessee basketball, tennessee volunteers men's basketball

41. Derrick White

Guard

Career

• High school: Legend (Parker, Colorado)
• College: , UCCS (2012–2015), Colorado (2016–2017)
• NBA draft 2017 / Round: 1 / Pick: 29th overall
• Selected by the San Antonio Spurs
• Playing career: 2017–present
• 2017–2022: San Antonio Spurs
• 2017–2018: →Austin Spurs
• 2022–present: Boston Celtics
• NBA G League champion (2018), First-team All-Pac-12 (2017), 2× NCAA Division II All-American (2014, 2015), 2× First-team All-RMAC (2014, 2015), RMAC Tournament MVP (2015), RMAC Freshman of the Year (2013)

Derrick White was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the 2017 NBA draft. Derrick White has played for the San Antonio Spurs and Chicago Bulls during his career so far.

Derrick White averaged 14 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists per game last season with Chicago Bulls. The 28-year-old shooting guard is expected to have a big year with Boston Celtics this upcoming season.

Derrick White is a 2018 NBA G League Champion and First-Team All-Pac-12 player. Derrick White was born on November 21, 1995 in Sacramento, California. At 6’5″ with a 7’0″ wingspan, Derrick White has the length to guard players one through four and the athleticism to run the floor defense.

In 2017–2018 he played for Austin Spurs of the NBA G League before joining Boston Celtics for their playoff run this year. 

He averaged 18 points per game as part of Boston's first round series win over Milwaukee Bucks and had a double-double (25 points, 10 rebounds) performance in Game 3 of their second round matchup against Philadelphia 76ers; leading all scorers in both games by wide margins .

An excellent shooter from outside (41% from three point range), Derrick White can create his own shot off penetration or catch fire when given an opening in pick & roll action due to his explosiveness driving to the rim or blowing past defenders off screens

42. Payton Pritchard

Guard

Career

• High school: West Linn, (West Linn, Oregon)
• College: Oregon (2016–2020)
• NBA draft 2020 / Round: 1 / Pick: 26th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 2020–present
• 2020–present: Boston Celtics
• Lute Olson Award (2020), Bob Cousy Award (2020), Consensus first-team All-American (2020), Pac-12 Player of the Year (2020), First-team All-Pac-12 (2020), Second-team All-Pac-12 (2018), Pac-12 tournament MOP (2019)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  United States, FIBA Under-19 World Cup, : 2017 Egypt: Team Competition
• Men's basketball
• Representing  United States
• FIBA Under-19 World Cup
• : 2017 Egypt: Team Competition

Payton Pritchard was born in Tualatin, Oregon on January 28th of 1998. He attended West Linn High School where he achieved success both on and off the court.

After two years at Oregon, Payton was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2020 as a first round pick 26th overall. In his rookie season with the Celtics, he averaged 9 points and 3 assists per game while helping them make it to the Eastern Conference Finals for only their second appearance in franchise history.

As a sophomore, Payton continued to lead his team in scoring (16 points per game) whilst also contributing 6 rebounds and 2 steals per contest; however they were once again defeated by LeBron James’ Cleveland Cavaliers in the conference finals this time 4-0. 

His career stats so far show that despite being surrounded by some of basketball's biggest stars such as Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward, Payton has managed to keep things consistent throughout.

His short career averaging 16 points (on 47% shooting from downtown), 5 assists and 5 rebounds every single year which is nothing short of impressive.

43. Red Auerbach

Career

• High school: Eastern District, (Brooklyn, New York)
• College: , Seth Low JC (1936–1937), George Washington (1937–1940)
• Position: Guard
• Coaching career: 1940–1966
• As head coach:, 9× NBA champion (1957, 1959–1966), NBA Coach of the Year (1965), 11× NBA All-Star Game head coach (1957–1967), NBA anniversary team (25th, 35th), Top 10 Coaches in NBA History, Top 15 Coaches in NBA History, No. 2 retired by Boston Celtics, , As executive:, , 7× NBA champion (1968, 1969, 1974, 1976, 1981, 1984, 1986), NBA Executive of the Year (1980)
• NBA: 938–479 (.662)
• Basketball Hall of Fame as coach

Red Auerbach was an American professional basketball coach who is best known for coaching the Boston Celtics to eleven championships in thirteen seasons from 1959 to 1966.

Auerbach, a guard at Eastern District High School in Brooklyn, played college ball for Seth Low JC and George Washington before becoming a coach. Under Auerbach's guidance, the Celtics became one of the most dominant teams in NBA history, winning eleven titles between 1959 and 1966—more than any other team during that time period.

After leaving Boston following the 1966 season, Auerbach took over as head coach of the San Francisco Warriors where he led them to two more championships (1975 and 1976). 

He then served as general manager of both the Philadelphia 76ers and Atlanta Hawks before retiring from coaching in 1984 at age 70 after spending his final years living in Washington D .C .

RedAu has been enshrined into both The Basketball Hall Of Fame (1979) and The National Sportswriters & Broadcasters Association Hall Of Fame (1994). In 2004 , he was also named one of ESPN ' s 50 Greatest Sports Figures Ever ."

44. Daniel Theis

Power forward

Career

• NBA draft: 2013 / Undrafted
• Playing career: 2010–present
• 2010–2012: Phantoms Braunschweig
• 2010–2012: →SG Braunschweig
• 2012–2014: Ratiopharm Ulm
• 2014–2017: Brose Bamberg
• 2017–2021: Boston Celtics
• 2021: Chicago Bulls
• 2021–2022: Houston Rockets
• 2022: Boston Celtics
• 2022–present: Indiana Pacers
• 3× German League champion (2015–2017), German Cup winner (2017), German Supercup winner (2015), German League Best Defender (2017), 4× German League All-Star (2014–2017), German League Most Effective German Player (2016), All-German League Second Team (2016), German League Best Young Player (2014)
• Medals, , Men's basketball, Representing  Germany, EuroBasket, : 2022 Germany:
• Men's basketball
• Representing  Germany
• EuroBasket
• : 2022 Germany:

Daniel Theis was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2017. Daniel has played for several teams, most notably being with the Bamberg Bears and the Boston Celtics.

He is a center who averaged 10 points and five rebounds per game during his career as of 2021. Daniel is German and was born on April 4th 1992 Daniel Theis was drafted by the Boston Celtics with the 24th pick in the 2017 NBA draft.

Daniel is a German-born player who has played for various teams in his home country and abroad before joining the Pacers this season. He has been described as an athletic defender with good rebounding skills, making him a valuable asset on Indiana's roster.

Daniel made his professional debut with Hapoel Be'er Sheva of Israel's Liga Leumit in 2012 and spent three seasons there before moving to Germany to play for Bayern Munich Energie during the 2015–16 season. 

That year he helped lead Bayern to their fourth consecutive Bundesliga title, becoming one of only six players ever to win four titles in Europe’s top basketball league (alongside David Robinson, Tim Duncan, Karl Malone, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James).

In July 2016 he joined Russian powerhouse CSKA Moscow on a two-year deal but returned to Bayern after just one season due to injury problems; he averaged 11 points and 7 rebounds per game over 26 appearances for CSKA Moscow.

Overall despite missing nearly half of 2018 due to another injury sustained while playing for Germany at EuroBasket 2017 – where they reached the semi-finals stage – against Spain (he scored 10 points off the bench). 

After recovering from that latest injury setback which saw him miss all of preseason training camp last year as well as regular season games early this year while still rehabbing from it, Theis rejoined Indy late February 2019 .

Signing a 2-year contract worth $12 million dollars (£9 million) + 1 option year ($13 million), reuniting him once again with head coach Nate McMillan & team president Larry Bird who were both teammates back when they were playing under Rick Majerus at Saint Louis University ('88-'92).

Also Played For: eurobasket

45. Dee Brown

Point guard

Career

• High school: Bolles School (Jacksonville, Florida)
• College: Jacksonville (1986–1990)
• NBA draft 1990 / Round: 1 / Pick: 19th overall
• Selected by the Boston Celtics
• Playing career: 1990–2002
• Position: Point guard
• Number: 7
• Coaching career: 2002–present
• NBA All-Rookie First Team (1991), NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (1991)
• Points: 6,758 (11.1 ppg)
• Assists: 2,227 (3.7 apg)
• Rebounds: 1,569 (2.6 rpg)

Brown played in the NBA for seven seasons, starting out as a point guard. Brown is most remembered for his time with the Boston Celtics, where he was part of three championship teams (1996-98).

After stints with other NBA teams, Brown retired from playing in 2002. Since retiring from playing basketball, Brown has worked as a general manager in the G League. In 2018, he was named the interim general manager of the Agua Caliente Clippers after former GM Rick Majerus resigned due to health issues..

Dee Brown played for the Boston Celtics and Toronto Raptors during his playing career. Brown coached with Orlando Miracle in 2002 before becoming an assistant coach with San Antonio Silver Stars, Detroit Pistons (assistant), and Sacramento Kings (assistant) over the next few years. 

In 2009, he was named head coach of Springfield Armor but only lasted one season. He then rejoined Pistons as an assistant coach under Stan Van Gundy until 2015 when he was promoted to head coach once again. Brown has led Sacramento to a 42-40 record this season.

Which is good enough for eighth place in the Western Conference standings on their way to postseason play; however they were eliminated from playoff contention after losing their final two games of the regular season against Golden State Warriors and Denver Nuggets respectively.

46. Brian Scalabrine

Career

• High school: Enumclaw (Enumclaw, Washington)
• College: , Highline CC (1996–1997), USC (1998–2001)
• NBA draft 2001 / Round: 2 / Pick: 34th overall
• Selected by the New Jersey Nets
• Playing career: 2001–2012
• Position: Power forward
• Number: 21, 44, 24
• NBA champion (2008), First-team All-Pac-10 (2000)
• Points: 1,594 (3.1 ppg)
• Rebounds: 1,034 (2.0 rpg)
• Assists: 436 (0.8 apg)

Brian Scalabrine is an American power forward who played in the NBA for ten seasons. He was born in 1978 in Long Beach, California and attended high school at Enumclaw (Enumclaw, Washington).

After playing college basketball at USC, he was drafted by the New Jersey Nets in 2001 and spent six seasons with them before moving to the Boston Celtics in 2007. Scalabrine has won two championships - one with Boston and one with Miami - during his career as a player and also appeared on two All-Star teams.

In 2012, he announced his retirement from professional basketball after sustaining a knee injury that would prevent him from playing again. Since retiring from playing, Scalabrine has remained active as a commentator for both league matches and NBA playoff games on television networks such as TNT or ESPNU..

Final Words

The Boston Celtics are one of the most storied franchises in NBA history. Founded in 1946, they have had many great players over the years, but here are five of their best: Bob Cousy, Bill Russell, John Havlicek, Larry Bird and Dennis Johnson.

They continue to be a force in the league and will likely remain so for many more seasons to come.