Certainly! Here are five lesser-known facts about the Boston Celtics that only true fans would know:
The Original Team Name: Before becoming the Celtics in 1946, the Boston franchise was initially named the “Boston Braves” after the local baseball team. However, the name was changed to the Celtics in 1949 to avoid confusion with the baseball team.
The Legendary Red Auerbach’s Cigar: Hall of Fame coach Red Auerbach was known for his signature victory cigar, which he would light up whenever he felt confident that the Celtics had secured a win. Auerbach’s cigar became a symbol of the team’s success and dominance during his tenure as head coach.
The “Leprechaun Logo” Origins: The iconic leprechaun logo that adorns the Celtics’ jerseys and merchandise was created in 1946 by Red Auerbach’s brother, Zang Auerbach. Inspired by the team’s Irish heritage and the popularity of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish logo, Zang designed the leprechaun as the Celtics’ official mascot.
The Most Successful Franchise in NBA History: With 17 NBA championships to their name, the Boston Celtics hold the record for the most titles won by any franchise in NBA history. Led by legendary players such as Bill Russell, Larry Bird, and Paul Pierce, the Celtics have enjoyed unparalleled success on the biggest stage.
The Origins of the Parquet Floor: The famous parquet floor at the Boston Garden, the Celtics’ former home arena, holds a special place in the team’s history. The unique design of the floor, composed of alternating sections of light and dark wood, was inspired by the floor at the Boston Arena, where the Celtics played their inaugural season in 1946. The distinctive parquet floor became synonymous with the Celtics and remains a cherished symbol of the team’s storied tradition.
