Bill Russell’s Historic Transition to Celtics Coach Remembered

BOSTON, Mass. — On this day in 1966, the Boston Celtics‘ legendary coach and general manager Red Auerbach made a groundbreaking announcement: Bill Russell would replace him as head coach. This pivotal moment took place earlier in the 1965-66 NBA season, when Auerbach revealed it would be his final year coaching. Following a loss in Game 1 of the 1966 NBA Finals, Auerbach appointed Russell, marking a historic milestone as he became the first Black head coach of any major professional sports team in North America.

Under Russell’s leadership, the Celtics went on to secure the 1966 NBA Championship, solidifying his impact on the franchise. Auerbach remained involved with the team as a general manager until the late 1980s and was an influential figure in Celtics history until his passing in 2006.

April 17 also holds significance for the Celtics as it marks the anniversary of the team drafting shooting guard Sam Jones in the 1957 NBA Draft. Selected eighth overall, Jones had an illustrious career with Boston, winning 10 titles and earning five All-Star Game selections between 1962 and 1968. His achievements place him second only to Russell in championship rings.

This date is also notable for the birthdays of several Celtics players. Andy Duncan, born in 1922, played 14 games for the Celtics during the 1950-51 season, averaging 2.1 points and 2.1 rebounds. Theo Ratliff, born on this day in 1973 in Demopolis, Alabama, was acquired by Boston in 2006 but faced injury issues. During his brief stint, Ratliff averaged 2.5 points and 3.5 rebounds over two games before being traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Another birthday celebrated today is that of small forward Ed Searcy, who played four games for the Celtics in 1975, averaging 1.5 points and 0.3 assists. Although his time with the team was short, he technically won a championship, as he departed before the playoffs began. Searcy shares his birthday with Matt Ryan, a recent addition to the Celtics who, despite being a short-timer, played in just one regular season game, scoring 3 points.

For Celtics fans, these anniversaries highlight not only individual achievements but also the rich history and legacy of one of the NBA’s most storied franchises.