The Best Boston Celtics Centers of All Time
Ranker NBA
Over 900 sports fans have voted on the 60+ athletes on Best Boston Celtics Centers of All Time. Current Top 3: Bill Russell, Robert Parish, Dave Cowens
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4.9K votes

957 voters

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Vote up the players who had the most success for the Boston Celtics

Big fan of Boston basketball? Then check out this list of Boston Celtics center. It includes almost every center from throughout Boston Celtics history, including current centers and past ones. Featuring some of the greatest NBA centers of all time, the best Celtics Cs include Bill Russell, Robert Parish, Dave Cowens, and Kendrick Perkins.

In the 2021-22 NBA season, the current Boston Celtics starting Cs and backup Cs are Robert Williams III, Al Horford, Enes Kanter, and Bruno Fernando.

Who are the best centers in Boston Celtics history? Vote below and help decide the greatest Boston Celtics center of all time!

Most divisive: Kendrick Perkins

Over 900 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Boston Celtics Centers of All Time

Birthplace : West Monroe, Louisiana

Nationality : United States of America

Position : Center

Boston Celtics: 1956–1969

A vital cornerstone of the Boston Celtics' unparalleled success throughout the 1960s, Bill Russell was drafted to the team in 1956 and quickly became an anchor on defense. Known for his unparalleled shot-blocking ability and tenacious rebounding, Russell consistently thwarted opponents' offensive attacks, helping to secure a staggering 11 NBA championships during his time in Boston. In addition to being a five-time NBA MVP, he was instrumental in redefining the role of the center and elevating the importance of defense in the sport overall. His legacy remains intact as one of the greatest players in the history of the game and a true Celtics legend.

Birthplace : Shreveport, Louisiana

Nationality : United States of America

Position : Center

Boston Celtics: 1980–1994

As a key component of the Celtics' formidable frontcourt during the 1980s, Robert Parish was acquired by the team in a trade from the Golden State Warriors in 1980. This dominant "Chief" teamed up with Larry Bird and Kevin McHale to form one of the most feared frontcourts in NBA history, capturing three NBA championships along the way. Parish's intimidating size and strength, combined with his uncanny agility for a man of his stature, made him a force to be reckoned with both offensively and defensively. A nine-time All-Star and Hall of Fame inductee, Parish's time with the Celtics cemented his place among the pantheon of the league's elite centers.

Birthplace : Newport, Kentucky

Nationality : United States of America

Team : Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks

Position : Power forward

Boston Celtics: 1970–1980

Drafted by the Celtics in 1970, Dave Cowens brought a relentless work ethic and unmatched hustle to the court during his tenure in Boston. Though slightly undersized for a center at 6'9", Cowens compensated for this with an all-out effort and dogged determination that earned him the respect and admiration of both teammates and opponents alike. During his time with the Celtics, Cowens collected two NBA championships, one MVP award, and eight All-Star selections - all the while demonstrating that heart and grit can sometimes trump physical attributes. Cowens remains a beloved figure in Boston Celtics lore, having given his all for the franchise and personifying Celtic pride.

Birthplace : Greenville, South Carolina

Nationality : United States of America

Team : Boston Celtics, Minnesota Timberwolves, Brooklyn Nets

Position : Power forward

Boston Celtics: 2007–2013

Acquired in a blockbuster trade from the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2007, Kevin Garnett instantly transformed the fortunes of the storied but struggling Celtics franchise. With an incredibly versatile skillset and unparalleled intensity on both ends of the court, Garnett quickly formed a formidable partnership with fellow Celtics stars Paul Pierce and Ray Allen, culminating in an NBA championship in 2008. During his six years in Boston, Garnett earned five All-Star selections, a Defensive Player of the Year award, and countless unforgettable moments that endeared him to the Celtics' faithful. Though his tenure in green was relatively brief compared to some other legendary Celtics centers, Garnett's contributions to the franchise are undeniable and will forever be etched in the annals of its illustrious history.

Birthplace : La Mesa, California

Nationality : United States of America

Team : Portland Trail Blazers, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Clippers

Position : Center

Boston Celtics: 1985–1987

Joining the Boston Celtics in 1985 after a storied yet injury-plagued career with the Portland Trail Blazers and the Los Angeles Clippers, Bill Walton provided a critical spark off the bench for the '85-'86 championship team. Known for his elite passing ability and basketball IQ, Walton's presence on the Celtics added depth and versatility to an already formidable roster. Winning the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award during his first season in Boston, Walton's contributions were instrumental in what many consider the greatest single-season team in NBA history. Though his time with the Celtics was short-lived, Walton's impact was undeniable, and his name remains synonymous with that legendary squad.

Birthplace : Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Nationality : Dominican Republic

Team : Boston Celtics

Position : Center

Boston Celtics: 2016–2019, 2021-2022

Signing with the Celtics as a free agent in the summer of 2016, Al Horford brought a steady veteran presence and all-around skillset to a young, emerging roster. Capable of stretching the floor with his shooting range and serving as an anchor on defense, Horford played an essential role in the Celtics' rapid ascent back to title contention. His unselfish play and leadership helped guide the team to multiple Eastern Conference Finals appearances during his three-year tenure in Boston. While Horford may not have captured an NBA championship with the Celtics, his impact on the team's development and success during his time there cannot be overstated.