Boston Celtics honor Red Auerbach on his birthday
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 20, 2026, 10:01 AM
Last updated Sep 20, 2026
Today marks the birthday of Boston Celtics legend Arnold Jacob "Red" Auerbach, born in Brooklyn, New York City in 1917. Auerbach, who secured 16 championships as a coach or general manager, is celebrated for his significant contributions to the game, including integrating Black players into the NBA. He drafted Chuck Cooper in 1950, assembled the first all-Black starting five in 1964, and appointed Bill Russell as the first Black head coach in 1968. Auerbach's influence extended into the late 20th century until he stepped back from team affairs around the year 2000 after being pushed out by Rick Pitino.
- •Red Auerbach was born on September 20, 1917.
- •He secured 16 championships, the most in North American sports history.
- •Auerbach was a pioneer in integrating Black players in the NBA.
- •He drafted Chuck Cooper, the first Black player in the league, in 1950.
- •Auerbach remained influential in Celtics affairs until around 2000.
- 10:01 AMYahoo Sports — Today in Boston Celtics history: Legendary coach, president Red Auerbach born
"Today in Boston Celtics history, Arnold Jacob "Red" Auerbach was born in Brooklyn, New York City, in 1917.
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