The Big Three Era (2008)
The 2008 Celtics: A new Big Three brings Banner 17 to Boston.
After another period of rebuilding, the Celtics assembled a new "Big Three" around team captain Paul Pierce by acquiring Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett in the 2007 off-season. Under the leadership of head coach Doc Rivers, the team defeated the Lakers to win their 17th championship in 2008, while also losing to the Lakers in the 2010 Finals.
Quick Facts
- Key figures
- Paul Pierce (F)
- Kevin Garnett (F/C)
- Ray Allen (G)
- Head coach
- Doc Rivers
- Championships won
- 1 (2007-2008 Season)
- Regular season record
- 66-16
- Defensive rating
- Led the NBA in 2007-2008
Lore & Background
The Celtics' 2008 championship was their first since 1986. The team's new "Big Three" of Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen led Boston to an NBA Finals victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, winning the series 4–2. The Celtics also reached the Finals in 2010, where they lost to the Lakers in seven games.
Reader's Guide
The 2008 Celtics are remembered for their dominant defense and team chemistry. Key players included Paul Pierce (team captain and Finals MVP), Kevin Garnett (Defensive Player of the Year), and Ray Allen (sharpshooter). The team was coached by Doc Rivers.
Did You Know?
- The Celtics' 2008 championship was their 17th, putting them ahead of the Lakers' 15 for the most championships at the time.
- The Celtics defeated the Lakers in the 2008 NBA Finals, continuing a historic rivalry that has seen the teams meet a record 12 times in the Finals.
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