The Boston Celtics were established on June 6, 1946, as part of the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which later merged with the NBA.¹⁾

The Celtics played their first-ever game on November 2, 1946, defeating the Providence Steamrollers 59-53.²⁾

The iconic shamrock logo and green-and-white color scheme were inspired by Boston’s strong Irish heritage.³⁾

The Celtics held the record for most NBA championships (17) until the Los Angeles Lakers tied them in 2020.⁴⁾

Boston won 11 championships in 13 seasons from 1957 to 1969, a feat unmatched in any professional sport.⁵⁾

The team won an unprecedented eight consecutive championships from 1959 to 1966.⁶⁾

With legends like Bill Russell, Bob Cousy, and John Havlicek, the Celtics were the first true dynasty in NBA history.⁷⁾

Bill Russell, the greatest defensive player in NBA history, won 11 championships with the Celtics, the most by any player.⁸⁾

Larry Bird and Magic Johnson had one of the most famous rivalries in sports, revitalizing the NBA in the 1980s.⁹⁾

Paul Pierce played 15 seasons with the Celtics, leading them to a title in 2008 and earning the nickname “The Truth.”¹⁰⁾

Kevin Garnett’s arrival in 2007 helped the Celtics win their first championship in 22 years.¹¹⁾

Cousy revolutionized point guard play with his flashy passing and six NBA titles.¹²⁾

“Havlicek stole the ball!” is one of the most famous calls in NBA history from the 1965 Eastern Conference Finals.¹³⁾

Ray Allen was a key part of the 2008 championship team and became one of the greatest shooters in history.¹⁴⁾

Legendary coach and GM Red Auerbach won nine titles as a coach and built the Celtics dynasty.¹⁵⁾

Auerbach would light a cigar whenever the Celtics secured a victory, a tradition still associated with the team.¹⁶⁾