The Boston Celtics are the most storied franchise in NBA history, boasting a record 17 championships, legendary players, and an enduring legacy of excellence. Choosing an all-time team for the Celtics is no easy task, but the following 10 players represent the best of the best. These selections are based on impact, championships, and individual greatness.
Starting Five
Point Guard: Bob Cousy (1950-1963)
Bob Cousy revolutionized the point guard position with his flashy ball-handling, court vision, and leadership. A six-time NBA champion and league MVP (1957), Cousy was the engine of the early Celtics dynasty. His ability to push the pace and create plays made him the first true superstar point guard in NBA history.
Shooting Guard: John Havlicek (1962-1978)
John Havlicek, an eight-time NBA champion, was the definition of versatility. Capable of playing both guard and forward, he was a relentless scorer, an elite defender, and one of the most clutch players in NBA history. His steal in the 1965 Eastern Conference Finals—“Havlicek stole the ball!”—remains one of the most iconic moments in Celtics lore.
Small Forward: Larry Bird (1979-1992)
Arguably the greatest Celtic of all time, Larry Bird was a three-time NBA champion and three-time league MVP. His shooting, passing, rebounding, and legendary trash talk made him one of the most dominant and respected players ever. Bird’s rivalry with Magic Johnson helped elevate the NBA to new heights, and his clutch performances are legendary.
Power Forward: Kevin McHale (1980-1993)
Kevin McHale was a post-scoring maestro and one of the best defensive big men of his era. A seven-time All-Star and three-time NBA champion, McHale’s footwork in the post was unmatched. His ability to defend multiple positions and play alongside Bird and Robert Parish made the 1980s Celtics nearly unstoppable.
Center: Bill Russell (1956-1969)
The ultimate winner in NBA history, Bill Russell led the Celtics to an astounding 11 championships in 13 seasons. A five-time MVP, Russell was the greatest defensive player the game has ever seen, revolutionizing shot-blocking and team defense. His leadership, rebounding dominance, and ability to elevate teammates make him the most indispensable player in Celtics history.
Bench Players
Paul Pierce (SF, 1998-2013)
Paul Pierce is one of the greatest scorers in franchise history and the heart of the 2008 championship team. The 10-time All-Star and 2008 Finals MVP was a clutch shot-maker and one of the best pure scorers in Celtics history.
Sam Jones (SG, 1957-1969)
A 10-time NBA champion, Sam Jones was known for his deadly mid-range jumper and ability to deliver in crucial moments. He was one of the most underrated stars of the Celtics dynasty and consistently delivered in the playoffs.
Robert Parish (C, 1980-1994)
“The Chief” was a key piece of the Celtics’ three championships in the 1980s. A dominant rebounder and durable big man, Parish played more games than anyone in NBA history and provided crucial inside presence alongside Bird and McHale.
Dave Cowens (C/PF, 1970-1980)
A two-time champion and league MVP in 1973, Dave Cowens was an undersized but relentless big man. His hustle, rebounding, and leadership helped bridge the gap between the Russell and Bird eras.
Ray Allen (SG, 2007-2012)
Ray Allen was the final piece to the Celtics’ 2008 championship puzzle. The NBA’s all-time three-point king (before Stephen Curry surpassed him) brought elite shooting and clutch performances, including the dagger in Game 6 of the 2008 NBA Finals.
Head Coach: Red Auerbach
No coach in NBA history had a greater impact on a single franchise than Red Auerbach. He led the Celtics to nine championships as a coach and built the foundation for their dynasty. Auerbach’s ability to assemble talent and innovate the game—including emphasizing team basketball and defense—cemented his legacy as the greatest coach in Celtics history.
The Celtics’ all-time team is stacked with Hall of Famers, champions, and all-time greats. With a mix of dominant big men, elite scorers, and legendary leaders, this roster reflects the franchise’s unparalleled success. Whether it was Russell’s defensive brilliance, Bird’s offensive dominance, or Auerbach’s coaching genius, the Celtics’ legacy is defined by excellence.
