The Boston Celtics' legacy is woven with threads from the NBA draft, a primary source for the franchise's legendary talent. From iconic stars to key role players, countless Celtics have begun their journey in green on draft night. This tradition draws from a diverse range of colleges, from powerhouse programs to smaller schools that produce hidden gems. Today, we're spotlighting the connection between the Celtics and Davidson College, tracing every Wildcat drafted by Boston.
The list begins with Dick Snyder, selected in the fifth round (47th overall) of the 1965 NBA Draft. While his Celtics tenure was brief, Snyder carved out a solid 12-year NBA career, known for his reliable scoring.
Next is Mike Maloy, taken in the 10th round (157th overall) in 1970. Maloy's path led him to a successful career in the ABA, where he became an All-Star, showcasing the talent that Boston identified.
The final Davidson alum drafted by the Celtics is Brian Adrian, picked in the fifth round (77th overall) in 1972. Adrian's professional career took him overseas, a common route for players of that era seeking to extend their playing days.
While the direct pipeline from Davidson to Boston has been modest, it highlights the Celtics' thorough approach to the draft, searching for value in every round. It also adds a layer of history to the franchise's deep roots in the collegiate basketball landscape.
