The Boston Celtics, one of the most storied franchises in NBA history, have seen a rich array of players don their iconic green jerseys over the years. Since the team's inception at the dawn of the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which eventually morphed into today's NBA, over 500 players have suited up for the Celtics, representing a staggering 68 different jersey numbers. Some of these numbers have become synonymous with legends, while others are lesser-known but still an integral part of the team’s history. Intriguingly, the team also has three jerseys not part of any traditional numerical series, further adding to the uniqueness of Celtics lore.
In fact, 25 of those jersey numbers are now retired, cementing the legacies of some of the greatest basketball players to ever grace the court. These numbers hanging in the rafters are not just a tribute to individual greatness but a nod to the monumental role these players played in the Celtics’ long-standing tradition of excellence. The retired jerseys symbolize everything from iconic moments to championship wins and unforgettable performances.
But today, let’s talk about a number that is still very much in rotation—jersey No. 0—and one of the six Celtics players to wear it: Leon Powe, a name that might not resonate as much as Larry Bird or Bill Russell, but a player who played a pivotal role during his time with the team. Powe’s journey to becoming an NBA champion is an inspiring one, full of resilience, determination, and a commitment to the game, traits that have often defined the Celtic spirit.
Before making his mark in Boston, Powe was already turning heads in college basketball. A native of Berkeley, California, he honed his skills at the University of California, Berkeley, where he showcased an undeniable work ethic and an ability to perform under pressure. Powe wasn’t one of those top-10 draft picks that you’d expect to immediately blow up in the NBA. Instead, he came into the league as a 49th overall pick in the 2006 NBA Draft. That night, the Denver Nuggets initially selected him, but in a twist of fate, he was traded to the Celtics. Little did anyone know that this deal would bring Powe to the doorstep of a championship just two years later.
Leon Powe’s three-season stint with the Celtics was short but impactful. During his time in Boston, he was part of a squad that ended the Celtics’ 22-year championship drought by capturing the NBA title in 2008. Now, that’s something to celebrate! Imagine being part of a team that included future Hall of Famers like Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen—yet still finding ways to contribute when your name gets called. That’s exactly what Powe did, especially during the 2008 NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers. In Game 2 of that series, Powe came off the bench and scored 21 points in just 15 minutes. That was a performance to remember! In a series where every game counts, Powe’s ability to step up and deliver solid minutes was critical to the Celtics’ championship run.
But like many athletes, Powe’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. His time with the Celtics came to an end in 2009 when he entered free agency and signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Injuries plagued his career, preventing him from reaching the same heights post-Boston, but the lasting impact he left on Celtics fans is undeniable. For those who witnessed his contributions during that memorable 2008 playoff run, Powe is more than just a role player—he's a Celtic champion through and through.
Here are some exciting points to take note of when reflecting on Powe’s career:
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Key Playoff Contributions: Powe’s standout Game 2 performance in the 2008 NBA Finals remains one of the most unexpected yet thrilling moments in recent Celtics history. Scoring 21 points in 15 minutes, Powe was the unsung hero of that game, giving Boston the energy and production they needed to fend off the Lakers.
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Championship Legacy: Being part of the Celtics' 2008 title run is a massive achievement in itself. Powe may not have been a headliner on that squad, but he certainly played his part in bringing Boston its 17th championship.
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A Career of Overcoming Challenges: Injuries cut short what could have been an even more impressive NBA career, but Powe’s resilience—both in college and during his professional stint—stands out as a testament to his grit and determination.
Powe’s career is also a great reminder of how teams like the Celtics often thrive on the contributions of unsung heroes. Sure, the names of Pierce, Garnett, and Allen were written in the stars, but for every superstar, there’s a role player like Powe who steps up when it matters most, providing those critical minutes that help lead a team to glory.
Reflecting on the sheer number of players who have worn Celtics jerseys, it’s easy to get lost in the sheer volume of history. Over 500 players, 68 different jersey numbers, and yet, each player—from the marquee names to the lesser-known contributors like Powe—has left an imprint on the franchise. And that’s the beauty of the Celtics’ rich history; it’s not just about the all-time greats, but also about the players who came in, played their role, and helped build the team’s enduring legacy.
While 25 jerseys have been officially retired, representing a veritable hall of fame, the number zero continues to be passed down from player to player, adding layers to its evolving story. Leon Powe may not be the only player to wear No. 0, but his time in that jersey will always be remembered for his grit and pivotal role in Boston’s 2008 championship.
So, the next time you see a Celtics player wearing No. 0, think of Leon Powe—the player who fought hard to make a difference in one of the most important NBA Finals series in Celtics history. And when you look up at those retired jerseys in the TD Garden rafters, remember that while only some players’ numbers are immortalized, every player who has worn the green and white has contributed to the rich tapestry of Celtics lore. Whether they’re hanging a banner or helping to win a title, every jersey has a story, and Powe’s is one of determination, resilience, and ultimately, triumph.
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