The Boston Celtics have a long and storied history, filled with legendary players, unforgettable moments, and an ever-changing lineup of jersey numbers. Since the team's inception in the early days of the Basketball Association of America (BAA) — the league that eventually evolved into today’s NBA — players have suited up in an incredible 68 different jersey numbers. Additionally, the team has three numbers that don’t follow the typical numerical series, adding even more uniqueness to their rich heritage. Over 500 players have proudly worn the Celtics' green and white, contributing to the legacy of one of the most successful franchises in professional basketball.
A Legacy Etched in History
One of the most exciting aspects of the Celtics' history is their deep respect for past players, reflected in the 25 jersey numbers that have been retired to honor some of the greatest athletes to ever play for Boston. Each retired number tells a story of hard work, championship victories, and unwavering dedication to the team. These jerseys hanging in the rafters of TD Garden serve as a constant reminder of the excellence that defines Celtics basketball.
Celebrating Every Jersey Number
To commemorate every player who has ever worn a Celtics jersey, Celtics Wire has embarked on an ambitious project—covering the entire history of every jersey number ever worn by a Boston player. From the early days of the franchise to the modern era, this deep dive into Celtics lore offers fans a chance to relive the journeys of both iconic and lesser-known players. Every number carries with it a different story, some of championship glory, others of perseverance, and some of short-lived stints in the league.
Spotlight on No. 13: Gabe Pruitt
For today’s feature, we focus on one of the 25 players who have worn the No. 13 jersey for the Celtics—Gabe Pruitt. Though his time with the team was brief, his story is still worth telling as part of the franchise's incredible history. A native of Los Angeles, California, Pruitt made a name for himself playing college basketball at the University of Southern California (USC), where his performance caught the attention of NBA scouts.
In the 2007 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics selected Pruitt with the 32nd overall pick, giving him the opportunity to showcase his skills on one of the most prestigious teams in the league. However, his professional career in the NBA was short-lived, lasting just two seasons with Boston before he moved on to play in international and domestic leagues. During his time with the Celtics, he exclusively wore the No. 13 jersey and contributed an average of 2.0 points per game. While his NBA tenure didn’t lead to long-term success in the league, he remains a part of Celtics history as one of the many players who have donned the green and white.
The Ever-Evolving Celtics Roster
The Celtics have always been known for their ability to reinvent themselves, adapting to new eras while honoring their past. Each new player that joins the roster adds another chapter to the team’s legacy. Some players leave a lasting impact, etching their names into history, while others may only have a brief stint in Boston but still contribute in their own way. Regardless of tenure, every player who has ever put on a Celtics jersey has played a role in shaping the team’s identity.
Stay Connected with Celtics News
For die-hard Celtics fans who love diving deep into the team’s history and latest updates, tuning into the "Celtics Lab" podcast is a must. This podcast offers insightful discussions on Celtics history, current events, player performances, and everything else related to the legendary franchise. Stay informed and engaged with Boston basketball by listening on your favorite platforms:
📌 Apple Podcasts: Listen Here
📌 Spotify: Listen Here
Final Thoughts
The Boston Celtics' legacy is built on decades of dedication, talent, and an undying passion for the game. From Hall of Famers to role players, every athlete who has worn the Celtics jersey has contributed to the team’s history. As we continue to explore the stories behind each jersey number, we celebrate both the legends and the unsung heroes who have made Celtics basketball what it is today.
So whether you remember the greats or are learning about past players for the first time, one thing is certain—the Celtics' history is as rich as the game itself. Stay tuned for more deep dives into the numbers, players, and unforgettable moments that make Boston one of the greatest franchises in NBA history!
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