The Evolution of Boston Celtics Jersey Designs
The Boston Celtics, a storied franchise in the NBA, have a rich history of players donning various jersey numbers. Since their inception in the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which later evolved into the NBA, the Celtics have seen over 500 players wear a total of 68 different jersey numbers, with three additional numbers not part of any series.
To honor the legacy of these players, Celtics Wire is delving into the history of jersey numbers and the players associated with them throughout the team’s existence. Among the 68 jersey numbers, 25 have been retired by the Celtics to commemorate some of the greatest players in the franchise’s history.
One unique case is jersey number 2, which holds a special significance within the Celtics organization. Unlike other jerseys worn by players, number 2 was never worn during a game; instead, it was retired in honor of the legendary Celtics head coach and team president, Arnold “Red” Auerbach. In 1985, a ceremony was held to retire the number 2 jersey as a tribute to Auerbach’s immense contributions to the team.
Arnold “Red” Auerbach is a pivotal figure in Celtics history, having played a crucial role in the team’s success. Under his leadership, the Celtics clinched nine championships while he served as head coach and added seven more titles in an executive capacity. Auerbach’s remarkable achievements include being named the league’s Coach of the Year in 1965 and the Executive of the Year in 1985, solidifying his status as one of the greatest figures in basketball history.
Auerbach’s impact on the Celtics franchise is undeniable, with his fingerprints evident on all but two of the team’s 18 championship banners. His unparalleled success as both a coach and an executive has cemented his legacy as a basketball icon, making the retirement of jersey number 2 a fitting tribute to his enduring influence on the Celtics organization.
As fans continue to celebrate the legacy of Arnold “Red” Auerbach, his contributions to the Celtics remain a testament to his unparalleled basketball acumen and leadership. The retirement of jersey number 2 stands as a reminder of Auerbach’s lasting impact on the Celtics and the sport of basketball as a whole.