Boston Celtics

The Boston Celtics are the most successful franchise in NBA history and - next to the New York Knickerbockers - one of only two founding members that have neither renamed nor relocated.

Founded in 1946, the Celtics won 16 NBA title overall, including eight straight in the 1960s.

Coach Red Auerbach shrewdly assembled a crew of players that helped Boston to dominate the NBA from 1957 to 1969. They won 11 out of a possible 13 titles led by the Hall of Famers Bob Cousy, John Havlicek and - above all - defense and rebounding machine Bill Russell. Many of these title were won against their arch-rival Los Angeles Lakers starring Wilt Chamberlain and Jerry West.

The Celtics renewed their rivalry with the Lakers in the 1980s when they added three more titles to their collection behind the play of Larry Bird, Kevin McHale and Robert Parish.

After almost two decades of mediocrity, this year's Boston Celtics are back atop the Eastern Conference standings and the trio of Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett is considered a legitimate title contender.

Created by: Ole Last edited by: Premier League