Last Updated on April 20, 2026 by Mat Diekhake
The Boston Celtics retired jerseys represent one of the richest legacies in NBA history. With more retired numbers than any other franchise, the Celtics honor legends from multiple championship eras, from the Bill Russell dynasty to the modern contenders.
Below is the complete list of all Boston Celtics retired jersey numbers.
Full List of Boston Celtics Retired Jerseys
#00 – Robert Parish
A cornerstone of the Celtics’ 1980s dominance, Robert Parish was a nine-time All-Star known for his durability and consistency in the paint.
#1 – Walter Brown
Walter Brown was the original owner of the Celtics and a key figure in the formation of the NBA. His contributions off the court were instrumental to the franchise’s existence.
#2 – Red Auerbach
The architect of Celtics greatness, Red Auerbach built multiple championship teams as a coach and executive, defining the franchise’s winning culture.
#3 – Dennis Johnson
A clutch performer and elite defender, Dennis Johnson played a major role in the Celtics’ 1980s championship runs.
#5 – Kevin Garnett
Kevin Garnett brought intensity and leadership to Boston, anchoring the defense of the 2008 championship team.
#6 – Bill Russell
The greatest winner in NBA history, Bill Russell led the Celtics to 11 championships and became a symbol of excellence and leadership.
#10 – Jo Jo White
Jo Jo White was a Finals MVP and key contributor during the Celtics’ 1970s championship success.
#14 – Bob Cousy
A revolutionary point guard, Bob Cousy helped define modern playmaking and led the Celtics to multiple titles in the 1950s and ’60s.
#15 – Tom Heinsohn
Tom Heinsohn was both a Hall of Fame player and championship-winning coach, deeply embedded in Celtics history.
#16 – Tom Sanders
A defensive specialist, Tom Sanders was part of eight championship teams during the Celtics dynasty years.
#17 – John Havlicek
John Havlicek was a relentless two-way star and one of the most durable players ever, winning eight championships with Boston.
#18 – Dave Cowens
An MVP and fierce competitor, Dave Cowens led the Celtics to championships in the 1970s with his versatility and energy.
#19 – Don Nelson
Don Nelson contributed to multiple championship teams and later became one of the most innovative coaches in NBA history.
#21 – Bill Sharman
Bill Sharman was a sharpshooter ahead of his time and later a successful coach and executive.
#22 – Ed Macauley
One of the franchise’s early stars, Ed Macauley was a multi-time All-Star and Hall of Famer.
#23 – Frank Ramsey
Known as one of the NBA’s first great sixth men, Frank Ramsey played a key role in multiple championship teams.
#24 – Sam Jones
Sam Jones was a prolific scorer and clutch performer, winning 10 championships with the Celtics.
#25 – K C Jones
K.C. Jones was a defensive stalwart and later coached the Celtics to two championships in the 1980s.
#31 – Cedric Maxwell
Cedric Maxwell was a Finals MVP and key contributor to the Celtics’ 1981 championship.
#32 – Kevin McHale
One of the greatest post players ever, Kevin McHale was a vital part of Boston’s 1980s dynasty.
#33 – Larry Bird
Larry Bird is one of the greatest players in NBA history, leading the Celtics to three championships and redefining the small forward position.
#34 – Paul Pierce
“The Truth” led the Celtics to the 2008 championship and is one of the franchise’s all-time leading scorers.
#35 – Reggie Lewis
A rising star whose life was tragically cut short, Reggie Lewis was the face of the Celtics in the early 1990s.
Boston Celtics Retired Numbers Summary
- 00 – Robert Parish
- 1 – Walter Brown
- 2 – Red Auerbach
- 3 – Dennis Johnson
- 5 – Kevin Garnett
- 6 – Bill Russell
- 10 – Jo Jo White
- 14 – Bob Cousy
- 15 – Tom Heinsohn
- 16 – Tom Sanders
- 17 – John Havlicek
- 18 – Dave Cowens
- 19 – Don Nelson
- 21 – Bill Sharman
- 22 – Ed Macauley
- 23 – Frank Ramsey
- 24 – Sam Jones
- 25 – K. C. Jones
- 31 – Cedric Maxwell
- 32 – Kevin McHale
- 33 – Larry Bird
- 34 – Paul Pierce
- 35 – Reggie Lewis
FAQs About Boston Celtics Retired Jerseys
How many numbers have the Boston Celtics retired?
The Boston Celtics have retired 23 jersey numbers, the most in NBA history.
Why do the Celtics have so many retired jerseys?
Their sustained dominance—especially during the Bill Russell era—resulted in a large number of Hall of Fame players being honored.
Is Bill Russell’s number retired league-wide?
Yes, Bill Russell’s #6 has been retired across the entire NBA, making it one of the most significant numbers in basketball history.
Why These Jerseys Matter
The Celtics’ retired jerseys reflect unmatched success, from 11 championships in 13 years during the Russell era to continued excellence in later decades. Each number represents a cornerstone of one of the NBA’s most historic franchises.
