The Early Years 1957 1966

17 NBA Championships: The Boston Celtics Dynasty

The Early Years: 1957-1966

The Boston Celtics began their reign of dominance in 1957, winning their first NBA championship. Led by Bill Russell, the Celtics swept the Minneapolis Lakers in four games, setting the stage for a dynasty that would last for nearly a decade. From 1959 to 1966, the Celtics won an unprecedented eight consecutive NBA titles, a feat that remains unmatched in league history.

The Middle Years: 1968-1986

After Russell's retirement in 1969, the Celtics continued their success, winning two more NBA championships in 1974 and 1976. The 1980s saw the Celtics return to prominence, with Larry Bird leading the team to three NBA titles in 1981, 1984, and 1986.

The Modern Era: 2008

After a period of decline in the 1990s and early 2000s, the Celtics re-emerged as a championship contender in 2007. Led by Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen, the Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Lakers in six games to win the 2008 NBA championship.

Legacy and Impact

With 17 NBA titles, the Boston Celtics are tied with the Los Angeles Lakers for the most championships in league history. The Celtics' dynasty in the 1960s is considered one of the greatest team accomplishments in sports history. The team's success has left a lasting impact on the city of Boston and the sport of basketball as a whole.