The Boston Celtics have a legacy that stretches back to the very beginnings of professional basketball, making them one of the most storied franchises in NBA history. Since their founding during the era of the Basketball Association of America (BAA)—which would later merge into what we now know as the NBA—the Celtics have seen an incredible number of players take the court in their iconic green and white jerseys. Over 500 players have worn the Celtics uniform, each leaving a mark, whether big or small, on the team’s long and celebrated history.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Celtics' history is the sheer number of jersey numbers that have been worn over the decades. A staggering 68 different numbers have graced the backs of players, along with three additional jerseys that don’t follow the standard numerical sequence. This rich tapestry of numbers tells the story of legends, role players, and those who had a brief stint with the franchise.
To honor this incredible history, Celtics Wire has been diving deep into the numbers—literally! We’re covering the full scope of the Celtics’ jersey number history, shining a spotlight on the players who proudly represented Boston while sporting each unique number. With 25 of those jerseys now permanently retired in tribute to some of the greatest Celtics of all time, it’s clear that the tradition of excellence runs deep in this organization.
Now, let’s talk about one of the players who once donned the No. 12 jersey—Togo Palazzi. While his name may not be as widely recognized as some of the franchise’s biggest stars, Palazzi played an important role in Celtics history. He was the third player out of a total of 35 to wear No. 12, making him a part of an exclusive group.
Born in Union City, New Jersey, Palazzi had already built an impressive basketball resume before entering the professional ranks. He played college basketball at Holy Cross, a school known for producing talented players, and was a standout performer during his time there. His efforts on the court caught the attention of NBA scouts, and in the 1954 NBA Draft, he was selected by the Boston Celtics with the fifth overall pick.
Palazzi’s tenure with the Celtics lasted parts of three seasons, during which he exclusively wore the No. 12 jersey. While he may not have been a dominant force on the court, he was a solid contributor, averaging 5.3 points and 2.9 assists per game. His time in Boston came to an end when his contract was sold to the Syracuse Nationals—a team that would eventually become today’s Philadelphia 76ers.
Even though Palazzi’s time with the Celtics was relatively short, his presence in the league during the early years of the NBA adds another chapter to the Celtics’ legendary history. Every player who has ever worn the green and white has contributed in some way to the team’s legacy, whether they played for a few seasons or became franchise icons.
It’s worth noting that the No. 12 jersey has been worn by a wide variety of players over the years, each bringing their own unique style to the team. From role players to impact contributors, the number has a legacy of its own. And while Palazzi may not have been a household name, his connection to the Celtics and his journey through professional basketball deserve to be remembered.
The Celtics’ dedication to honoring their past is evident in the way they celebrate the players who have been part of the organization. With 25 jerseys retired and hanging from the rafters at TD Garden, the franchise ensures that its greatest contributors will never be forgotten. The team’s commitment to history is a major reason why Celtics basketball remains one of the most respected and admired programs in all of sports.
The No. 12 jersey may not be one of the retired numbers, but the players who have worn it—including Togo Palazzi—are still part of the rich tapestry of Boston Celtics history. As we continue exploring the stories behind the numbers, we gain a greater appreciation for the athletes who helped shape the team, whether they were superstars, role players, or simply individuals who had their moment in the spotlight.
Boston’s history isn’t just about the legends—it’s also about the players who may not have made headlines but still played an essential role in keeping the Celtics’ tradition alive. So, as we celebrate the past, let’s take a moment to acknowledge players like Togo Palazzi, who wore the green and white with pride and helped build the foundation for one of the most successful franchises in sports history.
Stay tuned as we continue this journey through Celtics jersey numbers, uncovering the stories of players who have donned the famous Boston green. Whether they played for a single season or left a lasting impact, their contributions are forever woven into the rich history of this legendary team.
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