Last Updated on July 18, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

Robert Parish built an extraordinary career on durability, consistency, and a calm presence that made him one of the NBA’s most dependable centers for more than two decades. Nicknamed “The Chief,” he anchored the Boston Celtics through multiple championship runs while earning a reputation for steady excellence on both ends of the floor.

Here is the detailed information about Robert Parish:

  • Full Name: Robert Lee Parish
  • Nationality: United States (Shreveport, Louisiana)
  • DOB: Born August 30, 1953
  • Hometown: Shreveport, Louisiana
  • Height: 7 feet 0 inches (2.13 meters)
  • Weight: 230 lbs (104 kg) during his playing career
  • Wingspan: 7 feet 3 inches (2.21 meters)
  • Shoe Size: Size 16 (US)
  • Number: 00 (Warriors), 00 (Celtics), 00 (Hornets), 00 (Bulls)
  • Position: Center
  • High School: Woodlawn High School, Shreveport, Louisiana
  • College: Centenary College of Louisiana
  • Draft: 1976, 1st round, 8th pick overall by the Golden State Warriors
  • Teams:
    • Golden State Warriors (1976–1980)
    • Boston Celtics (1980–1994)
    • Charlotte Hornets (1994–1996)
    • Chicago Bulls (1996–1997)
  • Rings: 4 NBA Championships (1981, 1984, 1986 with the Boston Celtics; 1997 with the Chicago Bulls)
  • Kids: One daughter (Ashley)
  • Retirement Age: Retired from playing in 1997 at age 43
  • 2K Rating: 93-86 (Celtics)
  • Net Worth: Made $27,064,666 in the NBA

The player archetype of Robert Parish was a dependable two-way center whose consistency anchored winning teams for nearly two decades. He protected the paint with length, timing, and disciplined positioning instead of chasing highlight blocks, while his rebounding helped Boston control possessions on both ends. Parish scored efficiently through soft turnaround jumpers, jump hooks, and finishes around the rim, rarely needing plays designed exclusively for him. Tall, durable, and remarkably steady, he brought a calm presence that complemented the Celtics’ stars, quietly delivering reliable production year after year without demanding attention.

Player Insights

Robert Parish was a very reliable center for the Boston Celtics. When I watched him play for the Celtics, I didn’t realize he was as highly regarded as he was because he didn’t seem very quick and I underestimated his statistical production. As it turns out, Parish was an MVP candidate in his first two seasons as a Celtic, followed by a five-time All-Star. His best years were spent with the Celtics playing alongside Kevin McHale in the frontcourt.