Celtics recall notable debuts and birthdays on October 31
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 31, 2026, 10:00 AM
Last updated Oct 31, 2026
On October 31 in Celtics history, several significant debuts occurred. Chauncey Billups played his first game for Boston after being selected third overall in the 1997 NBA Draft. He scored 15 points in just under 17 minutes. Former center John Thomas and Ron Mercer also made their debuts, contributing with 2 rebounds and 11 points, respectively. Additionally, Rick Carlisle debuted for the Celtics in 1984, scoring 8 points and delivering 7 assists in a win over the New Jersey Nets. Today marks the birthday of Blue Edwards, born in 1965, who had a brief stint with Boston after being traded from Utah in 1994.
- •Chauncey Billups debuted for the Celtics on October 31, 1997.
- •Billups scored 15 points in his inaugural game.
- •Ron Mercer and John Thomas also debuted on this date.
- •Rick Carlisle made his first appearance for Boston in 1984.
- •Today celebrates the birthday of Blue Edwards, born in 1965.
- 10:00 AMYahoo Sports — Today in Boston Celtics history: Billups, Mercer, Thomas, Carlisle, Palazzi, Guarilia debut; Edwards born
"Today in Boston Celtics history, former Celtics wing and current Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle debuted for Boston.
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