The Boston Celtics have a rich and storied history, marked not only by their legendary players and championships but also by the jerseys those players wore. Since the team's inception during the Basketball Association of America (BAA) era—the precursor to today’s NBA—a staggering 68 different jersey numbers have been worn by over 500 players. In addition, the Celtics have three jerseys not tied to any numerical series, making their uniform history truly unique. It’s a legacy woven into the fabric of the game itself, one that Celtics Wire has taken the time to honor by diving deep into the history of these jersey numbers and the players who donned them.
A particularly exciting aspect of Celtics history is the incredible honor bestowed upon certain players whose jerseys have been retired. Of the 68 numbers used, 25 jerseys now hang in the rafters of TD Garden, permanently enshrined to celebrate the greatness of the players who wore them. From Bill Russell’s iconic No. 6 to Larry Bird’s legendary No. 33, these numbers represent more than just uniforms; they symbolize the heart and soul of a franchise that has long been synonymous with basketball excellence. Every retired jersey tells a story, and every player who wore that number contributed to the Celtics' unparalleled success.
In this rich tapestry of numbers and names, there are stories that might not always grab the headlines but are worth celebrating nonetheless. For instance, let’s talk about the No. 11 jersey. Over the years, 29 different players have had the honor of wearing this number, each leaving their own mark. Today, we’re focusing on the 21st player to sport this jersey: Marcus Banks, a Boston guard alum whose journey through the league is as compelling as it is underappreciated.
Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, Marcus Banks built a name for himself during his college career at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). A standout player at UNLV, Banks’ performance caught the attention of NBA scouts, and in the 2003 NBA Draft, he was selected as the 13th overall pick by the Memphis Grizzlies. However, his professional journey took a turn before he even suited up for Memphis, as he was traded to the Boston Celtics in a deal that also brought Kendrick Perkins to the team. This trade would prove significant for the Celtics, as Perkins would go on to become a key player during their 2008 championship run.
Banks’ time with the Celtics, though relatively short, showcased his potential and grit. Over the course of three seasons with Boston, he exclusively wore the No. 11 jersey. His contributions on the court included an average of 5.3 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. While these numbers might not leap off the page, they reflect a player who consistently brought energy and effort to every game. Banks’ quickness and defensive prowess made him a valuable asset, especially in high-pressure moments.
Despite his promising start, Banks’ tenure with the Celtics came to an end in 2006 when he was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves. His departure marked the beginning of a journeyman’s path through the league, but his time in Boston remains a significant chapter in his career. For Celtics fans, Marcus Banks represents a period of transition and rebuilding, a time when the team was laying the groundwork for future success.
To put it into perspective, every player who dons the green and white uniform contributes to the Celtics’ legacy in some way. Whether they’re a Hall of Famer like Paul Pierce or a role player like Marcus Banks, each individual adds another layer to the franchise’s storied history. And that’s what makes the Celtics such a special team—their history isn’t just about championships or MVPs; it’s about the collective effort of every player who steps onto the court.
It’s also fascinating to consider the broader context of jersey numbers in sports. Numbers aren’t just identifiers; they carry personal significance for players and often become symbols of their careers. For Marcus Banks, wearing No. 11 for the Celtics was a defining aspect of his early years in the league. And while his stats during those seasons may not earn him a place in the Hall of Fame, they’re a reminder of the hard work and determination it takes to compete at the highest level of basketball.
So next time you look up at the rafters of TD Garden or watch the Celtics take the court, remember that every jersey number—retired or not—has a story behind it. From the legends whose numbers are immortalized to players like Marcus Banks, who contributed to the team’s journey in quieter but no less meaningful ways, the Celtics’ history is a mosaic of individual and collective triumphs. It’s this deep connection to its players and fans that makes Boston one of the most celebrated franchises in sports history.
The story of the No. 11 jersey and Marcus Banks is just one chapter in a much larger book. Whether it’s the legendary figures who built the dynasty or the unsung heroes who kept the Celtics’ spirit alive during challenging times, every player has helped shape the identity of this iconic team. And as Celtics Wire continues its journey through the history of jersey numbers, fans can look forward to rediscovering the players and moments that have made the Boston Celtics a beacon of basketball greatness.
Login