On this day in Boston Celtics history, two key moments stand out. In 1987, the team signed center Mark Acres, a 6-foot-11 big man originally drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in 1985 out of Oral Roberts University. After spending two seasons honing his skills in Europe, Acres joined the Celtics as a free agent. While his time in Boston was modest—averaging just 3 points, 3 rebounds, and 0.4 assists per game as a reserve over two seasons—he played a role in the team's depth. Acres' Celtics tenure ended in 1989 when he was selected by the Orlando Magic in the NBA expansion draft, making him the only Celtic taken by either the Magic or the Minnesota Timberwolves that year.

But the day also marks a far more glorious chapter: Game 5 of the 1974 NBA Finals. On this date, the Celtics defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 96-87 to take a 3-2 series lead. Legends John Havlicek and Dave Cowens each poured in 28 points, powering Boston to a crucial victory. Reflecting on the underdog spirit, head coach Tommy Heinsohn later recalled, "We were the David and they were the Goliath." The Celtics would go on to clinch their 12th championship in a thrilling seven-game series.

Fast forward to 2011, and this date also saw a memorable playoff performance: the Celtics beat the Miami Heat 97-81 in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Kevin Garnett led the way, but the story of the night was Rajon Rondo, who played through a dislocated shoulder—a testament to the grit that defines Celtics basketball.