Ray Allen

The sharpshooter who kept number 20 and led Boston to its 17th title.

Ray Allen arrived in Boston on July 31, 2007, traded from the Seattle SuperSonics to join Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett. This union formed the famous 'Big Three,' instantly revitalizing the franchise. Keeping his jersey number 20 from his Seattle days, Allen helped lead the Celtics to an NBA championship in 2008. His tenure with Boston lasted five seasons before he departed for Miami. While his time in green was relatively short compared to other legends, it included a title and one of the most memorable plays in league history.

Quick Facts

Born: 20 July 1975
Birthplace: Merced, California, U.S.
High school: Hillcrest (Dalzell, South Carolina)
College: UConn (1993–1996)
Draft round: 1
Drafted by: Minnesota Timberwolves
Career position: Shooting guard
Career number: 34, 20

Lore & Background

On July 31, 2007, the Seattle SuperSonics traded Allen and the 35th overall pick in the 2007 NBA draft to the Celtics. In return, Boston sent Delonte West, Wally Szczerbiak, and the fifth overall pick (which Seattle used to select Jeff Green) to Seattle. Shortly after acquiring Allen, the team added Kevin Garnett from the Minnesota Timberwolves. Upon joining the roster, Allen kept his jersey number 20, which he had worn in Seattle. The trio of Allen, Garnett, and Pierce dominated the league, culminating in an NBA championship in 2008. This period marked a return to glory for Boston, utilizing their combined scoring and defensive prowess to secure the title.

Reader's Guide

Ray Allen's time in Boston (2007–2012) was characterized by immediate success and high-level execution. He joined a team that had missed the playoffs for years and quickly turned them into champions. The 'Big Three' of Allen, Pierce, and Garnett won the NBA title in 2008. Allen's role was vital as a floor spacer and scorer. During his five seasons with Boston, he maintained his status as one of the league's premier shooters. His departure after the 2011–2012 season led to a complex narrative involving a contract dispute and a subsequent move to Miami, where he won another title. He played for four different teams in total before retiring on November 1, 2016.