Today in Boston Celtics history: Thompson, Counts, Bonham draft; Garnett cut; Jones signs

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Today in Boston Celtics history: Thompson, Counts, Bonham draft; Garnett cut; Jones signs

Today in Boston Celtics history: Thompson, Counts, Bonham draft; Garnett cut; Jones signs

Today in Boston Celtics history, the storied ball club selected four notable players in the 1964 NBA Draft

Today in Boston Celtics history: Thompson, Counts, Bonham draft; Garnett cut; Jones signs

Today in Boston Celtics history, the storied ball club selected four notable players in the 1964 NBA Draft

Today in Boston Celtics history, the franchise made a series of moves that would shape its legendary legacy. In the 1964 NBA Draft, held in New York City, the Celtics selected four players who would go on to contribute to the team's storied championship run. While they missed out on future champion forward Paul Silas—who was picked by the St. Louis Hawks in the second round—the Celtics found their own gems.

Silas eventually joined Boston in 1972, winning two NBA titles, earning multiple All-Defensive Team selections, and making an All-Star appearance. But on draft day, the Celtics focused on building a dynasty. With the seventh overall pick, they selected big man Mel Counts from Oregon State. Counts played just two seasons in Boston, but they were banner years: he won championships in 1965 and 1966, averaging 6.8 points and 5.8 rebounds per game.

At the 16th pick, the Celtics added Ron Bonham from Cincinnati. Bonham also won two rings during his brief two-year stint, posting 6.3 points and 1.5 rebounds per contest. Later, with the 34th pick, Boston chose center John Thompson from Providence. Thompson played only two seasons, winning titles in both 1965 and 1966, and averaged 3.5 points and 3.5 rebounds. He would go on to become a Hall of Fame coach at Georgetown, proving his impact extended far beyond the court. The Celtics also drafted Joe Strawder, but he never played for Boston, instead spending three seasons with the Detroit Pistons.

Fast forward to 1999, and another notable roster move took place on this date: the team cut guard Marlon Garnett. No relation to the legendary Kevin Garnett, Marlon was waived after a 24-game stint during the lockout-shortened 1998-99 season. The Santa Clara alum averaged just 2.1 points per game, but his release was a reminder that even in a championship-rich organization, roster turnover is constant. For Celtics fans, these moments—from draft-day steals to tough cuts—paint a picture of a franchise always building toward the next banner.

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