Celtics legends Bill Russell and Kevin Garnett among top defenders
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 21, 2026, 12:40 PM
Last updated Jul 21, 2026
In the rankings of the 99 best defenders in NBA history released by Bleacher Report, Boston Celtics icons Bill Russell and Kevin Garnett secured the Nos. 1 and 3 spots, respectively. Russell, regarded as a defensive legend, anchored Boston's elite defense during his 13 seasons, contributing to 11 championships. Garnett, although not a lifelong Celtic, significantly impacted Boston's defensive culture during his tenure. Other notable Celtics figures appeared in the rankings, including Paul Silas at No. 83 and Dennis Johnson at No. 45.
- •Bill Russell ranks No. 1 in NBA's top defenders list
- •Kevin Garnett ranks No. 3, pivotal to Celtics defense
- •Celtics have multiple players in top 100 defensive rankings
- •Russell's impact included improving Boston's defensive rating
- •Celtics history marked by numerous legendary defenders
- 12:40 PMYahoo Sports — Celtics Legends Ranked Nos. 1, 3 Best Defenders in NBA History
"Boston has had some of the NBA's all-time greats in its uniform.
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