The Boston Celtics have a rich history of winning NBA championships, with a league-high 18 titles to their name. In 1966, they added another championship to their collection under the guidance of legendary coach Red Auerbach.
What happened?
Red Auerbach, the godfather of Celtics basketball, announced his plans to step down as coach after the 1966 playoffs. He had been coaching the team for 20 seasons and had won 16 NBA championships. Auerbach's decision to retire as coach was a significant moment in Celtics history, and it marked the end of an era for the team.
Why it matters for Boston Celtics
The Celtics' 1966 championship was a testament to Auerbach's leadership and coaching ability. Despite the team's 54-26 regular season record, which was not enough to secure the Eastern Division title, they still managed to win the championship. The team's defense was the league's best, and their offense was ranked next to last. However, they were motivated to win one for Auerbach on his way out, and they were able to overcome their struggles to secure the title.
What comes next?
The Celtics' 1966 championship was a significant moment in the team's history, and it marked the beginning of a new era for the franchise. Auerbach's decision to retire as coach paved the way for new leadership, and the team was able to continue its winning ways under the guidance of new coaches. The Celtics' 1966 championship is a reminder of the team's rich history and its commitment to winning.
The Celtics' 54-26 regular season record was not enough to secure the Eastern Division title, but they still managed to win the championship. The team's longest win streak was during the last six games of the season, but the Philadelphia 76ers edged them by one win. Many of the original core were now retired or moved on, and the Sixers were improving.
The Celtics still had the league's best defense, but the offensive rating ranked next to last. While they were motivated to win one for Auerbach on his way out, that sort of pressure can wear you down too. On top of that, going for an eighth straight title was even more draining. A new roster addition was Don Nelson, entering his fourth NBA season. Nelson was on the Lakers when they were run off the court at the end of the 1965 Finals. He was cut after the season, but Boston signed him as a free agent.
"Nellie" would go on to play more than 1,000 games, win five titles, then become a head coach with five teams spanning three decades. He ranks second all-time with 1,335 wins, as well as earning Coach of the Year three times. Don Nelson passed away this past Sunday at age 86. Rest in peace, champ.
The Celtics finally had to play a first-round, best-of-five series, versus the Cincinnati Royals. All the aforementioned motivation must've been forgotten because the Royals won Games 1 and 3 in Boston. Only a fourth-quarter comeback fueled by 42 points from Sam Jones in Game 2 saved the Cs from a catastrophic sweep. Game 4 was in Cincinnati, but the Royals missed their chance to end the dynasty when Sam and Satch Sanders combined for 43 points.
The Celtics' 1966 championship was a significant moment in the team's history, and it marked the beginning of a new era for the franchise. Auerbach's decision to retire as coach paved the way for new leadership, and the team was able to continue its winning ways under the guidance of new coaches. The Celtics' 1966 championship is a reminder of the team's rich history and its commitment to winning.
Last result: Boston Celtics 100-109 Philadelphia 76ers (2026-05-02). Recent form (last 5): 0W-0D-5L (LLLLL, most recent first); lost the last 5.
