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Celtics history marked by Len Bias tragedy and key draft decisions

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 10:00 AM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

Celtics history marked by Len Bias tragedy and key draft decisions

Summary

On June 19, the Boston Celtics reflect on several significant historical events. Len Bias, selected second overall in the 1986 NBA Draft, tragically died two days later due to cocaine use, impacting the franchise for years. The Celtics also made notable draft choices on this day in 1984, selecting Rick Carlisle and Michael Young. Additionally, M.L. Carr became head coach on this date in 1995, overseeing a difficult period for the team. In 2017, the Celtics traded the top pick to Philadelphia, subsequently drafting Jayson Tatum.

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•Len Bias died two days after being drafted in 1986.
•Celtics selected Rick Carlisle and Michael Young in the 1984 NBA Draft.
•M.L. Carr became head coach in 1995, ending with a 48-116 record.
•In 2017, the Celtics traded the top pick to draft Jayson Tatum.

Latest Updates

10:00 AMYahoo Sports — Today in Boston Celtics history: Bias dies; Carlisle draft; Carr hired as coach; trade back for Tatum

What they're saying

"
Len Bias, picked up by Boston with the No. 2 pick of the 1986 NBA Draft, tragically passed away just two days after being chosen by the Celtics.
— Yahoo Sports

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