Overview
The Boston Celtics are the most decorated franchise in NBA history, playing home games at TD Garden in the heart of downtown Boston. Steeped in tradition and parquet-floor mystique, the Celtics have defined winning basketball across multiple eras, from the Bill Russell dynasty to the modern-day title runs. Kelly-green jerseys and 18 championship banners make Boston's basketball identity among the most storied in all of sports.
History & Legacy
Founded in 1946 as one of the NBA's original franchises, the Celtics built an unmatched dynasty in the 1950s and 60s under coach Red Auerbach and center Bill Russell, winning 11 titles in 13 seasons. Larry Bird led another golden era in the 1980s, and Paul Pierce anchored a championship run in 2008. The Celtics won their 18th title in 2024, reclaiming the record for most championships in NBA history.
Source: RateGame Editorial
Founded1946
Championships18 (1957, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1974, 1976, 1981, 1984, 1986, 2008, 2024)
Home VenueTD Garden
RivalsLakers
Conference Titles23 Finals appearances — most in NBA history
All-Time IconBill Russell
Retired Numbers22 numbers retired — most in NBA (incl. 6 Russell, 14 Cousy, 32 McHale, 33 Bird, 34 Pierce)
ColorsKelly green, white
MascotLucky the Leprechaun
OwnershipBill Chisholm / Chisholm Group (since 2025, full control by 2028)