Boston Celtics Jersey History: No. 4 Tony Battie (1999-03)

The Boston Celtics, one of the most storied franchises in NBA history, have seen a multitude of players don their iconic green jerseys over the years. Since the team’s inception in the early days of the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which later evolved into the NBA, more than 500 players have worn the Celtics uniform, sporting a total of 68 different jersey numbers. The team has also retired 25 jerseys to honor some of the greatest players in Celtics history.

In a tribute to the players who have worn those numbers, Celtics Wire is delving into the rich history of jersey numbers and the players associated with them throughout the team’s existence. Each jersey number tells a unique story of the player who wore it, showcasing the diverse talent that has graced the Celtics roster over the years.

One such player is Tony Battie, who wore the No. 4 jersey for the Boston Celtics during his tenure with the team. Battie, a product of Texas Tech, was selected as the fifth overall pick in the 1997 NBA draft by the Denver Nuggets. After a brief stint with the Nuggets, he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers and eventually found his way to the Celtics in 1999 as part of a trade involving Travis Knight.

During his time with the Celtics, Battie switched from No. 40 to No. 4, a number he would wear for the majority of his five-season tenure in Boston. Known for his defensive prowess, Battie averaged 6.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game during his time with the Celtics. However, his impact off the court may be even more significant, as he played a crucial role in saving the life of his teammate Paul Pierce after Pierce was stabbed in 2000.

In 2003, Battie was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers as part of a multi-player deal that reshaped the Celtics roster. Despite his departure from Boston, Battie left a lasting legacy with the team and remains a beloved figure among Celtics fans.

As the Celtics continue to honor their rich history and the players who have contributed to their success, the legacy of players like Tony Battie serves as a reminder of the impact individuals can have both on and off the court. The No. 4 jersey will forever be associated with Battie’s time in Boston, symbolizing his dedication and contributions to the Celtics organization.

For more insights into Celtics history and the players who have left their mark on the franchise, stay tuned to Celtics Wire for in-depth coverage and analysis of the team’s storied past.