I loved the Celtics teams of the 1970s! Tickets to the games at "The Garden" were cheap (see photo) - the action was fast - the Celtics players were undersized and overachievers - and "The Jewish Architect", Red Auerbach, used to send personal Christmas cards to me since I filled many of the empty seats by sponsoring bus trips to the games.
The 70s Celtics players were generally undersized. Dave Cowens, at 6'8.5", had to combat the likes of 7-foot-plus Wilt Chamberlain and Kareem Abdul Jabbar. John Havlicek, at 6'5", often manned the forward position - as did 6'6" Don Nelson. Paul Silas had one inch over "Nellie" and played the power forward slot. JoJo White did have average size (6'3") as the point guard. Only Don Chaney had a bit of an edge at 6'5", covering the shooting guard slot. It was the same for Charlie Scott, also 6'5", manning one of the guard spots.
My point is that basketball fans hear a lot about the 60s teams, led by Bill Russell. Hell, why not. The 60s produced a dynasty for the Celtics, with Title-after-Title almost expected every season.
And the 80s, with Bird, McHale, Parish, DJ and Ainge (and three Championships) were thrilling for Boston sports fans. The 1985-86 crew may have been the best-ever to take to the NBA hardwood. For good reason, the 80s Celtics get a ton of attention.
We also hear a lot about The Green teams from the early 2000s - particularly the 2008 Title group of Pierce, Garnett, Allen and Rondo. But what about the 70s!
The Athletic recently released its rankings of the 75 Greatest NBA players All-Time. JoJo White did not make the list at all, and his omission is a disgrace. Havlicek is ranked #29 on The Athletic's list and "Big Red" is at #57, far too low a ranking for such a skilled, energy-driven center.
The 70s Celtics racked up two Championships and may have had a third Title if Hondo had not injured his shoulder in the 1973 East Finals. So why are they often ignored? Is it the fact that the players were not blatant showmen. They certainly lacked the bravado exhibited by later members of The Green.
Cowens could be somewhat reclusive. Havlicek was reserved and understated. White was a quiet individual who made a lot of noise on the court. Fans never saw a lot of emotion from Nellie, and Don Chaney was very reserved. Regardless, I loved those guys - and those teams. Am I alone?
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