Boston Celtics

Boston_Celtics

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The Boston Celtics are an American professional basketball team based in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics compete in the National Basketball Association (NBA) as a member of the league's Eastern Conference Atlantic Division. Founded in 1946, the team is one of the most successful franchises in NBA history, having won 17 NBA championships, tied for the most in league history with the Los Angeles Lakers.

History

The Boston Celtics were founded in 1946 by Walter A. Brown as a charter member of the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which later merged with the National Basketball League (NBL) to form the NBA. The team quickly rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s under the leadership of head coach Red Auerbach and the play of stars such as Bill Russell, Bob Cousy, and John Havlicek.

The Dynasty Years

The Celtics' dominance began in the late 1950s and continued through the 1960s, during which they won 11 championships in 13 seasons, including eight consecutive titles from 1959 to 1966. This era was marked by the defensive prowess and rebounding of Bill Russell, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history.

The Larry Bird Era

In the 1980s, the Celtics experienced another period of success with the arrival of Larry Bird, who led the team to three NBA championships in 1981, 1984, and 1986. Bird, along with teammates Kevin McHale and Robert Parish, formed one of the most formidable frontcourts in NBA history.

Recent Years

The Celtics won their most recent championship in 2008, led by the "Big Three" of Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen. The team has remained competitive in the years since, consistently making playoff appearances and contending for the Eastern Conference title.

Home Arena

The Celtics play their home games at TD Garden, which they share with the Boston Bruins of the National Hockey League (NHL). The arena, located in the North End of Boston, has been the team's home since 1995.

Notable Players

• Bill Russell
• Larry Bird
• Paul Pierce
• Kevin Garnett
• Ray Allen
• John Havlicek
• Bob Cousy
• Kevin McHale
• Robert Parish

Rivalries

The Celtics have several notable rivalries, the most famous of which is with the Los Angeles Lakers. This rivalry is considered one of the greatest in sports history, with the two teams having met in the NBA Finals 12 times. Other significant rivalries include those with the Philadelphia 76ers and the New York Knicks.

Related Pages

• National Basketball Association
• TD Garden
• Los Angeles Lakers
• Larry Bird
• Bill Russell
• Red Auerbach
• Paul Pierce
• Kevin Garnett
• Ray Allen

See Also

• List of Boston Celtics seasons
• List of Boston Celtics head coaches
• Boston Celtics accomplishments and records

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