Let’s look back at some legendary Celtics moments from past All-Star weekends in observance of NBA All-Star weekend and Jaylen Brown’s participation in the dunk competition this year. Every major All-Star game has seen a number of historic Celtics moments over the years. Let’s explore the greatest moments from the Celtics All-Star weekend in history.
The Five Greatest All-Star Games in Celtics History: Larry Bird’s Three-Peat.
Larry Bird had won three straight three-point games in the 1980s, just like MVPs. Notably, Bird’s three victories match the competition’s first three years. However, none was more iconic than Bird’s 1988 three-peat performance. As assured as ever, Bird wore his warm-up jacket the entire competition—he repeated this move in 1987. Although he started off a little slowly, Bird eventually struck his money ball to move on to the next round. After defeating Dale Ellis with a money ball three, Bird won the game in spectacular way. Bird celebrated by waving his finger in the air as he left the scene. In the end, Bird’s 1988 performance and game-winning three-pointer rank among the all-time greats in three-point contest history, and they hold a special place in Celtics history.
Dee Brown’s Legendary Dunk Competition
In 1991, Dee Brown gave one of the most iconic dunk contest performances in history. With spectacular dunks including the first-ever two-ball dunk, a clever “shoe pump” dunk, and a between-the-legs dunk, the dynamic youngster grabbed the stage early on. Using his trademark no-look dunk, Brown defeated legendary 1990s dunker Shawn Kemp in the decisive round. In addition to creating one of the most famous images in NBA history, Brown’s no-look dunk is still regarded as one of the best moments in the history of dunk contests. This year’s dunk contest will feature Jaylen Brown paying tribute to Dee Brown.
Tatum’s Performance Broke Records.
It will always be remembered for Jayson Tatum’s historic performance during the All-Star game last year. Tatum refused to let up and controlled the entire night in a game where the majority of stars gave little to no effort or defense. Tatum led Team Giannis to victory with an All-Star record 55 points, 10 threes, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists. With 55 points, Tatum eclipsed Anthony Davis’ 52-point mark from 2017. Tatum, of course, won the MVP award for the All-Star game for his incredible performance. In this game, Tatum produced some iconic plays, including as a one-on-one with Brown and a three-point shot in the third quarter.
4 All-Stars for the Celtics
Ray Allen, Rajon Rondo, Paul Pierce, and Kevin Garnett were the four Celtics named All-Stars in 2011. Remarkably, the 2011 Celtics are just one of three teams in Celtics history and one of just nine teams in NBA history to have four All-Star selections. LeBron James’ rookie season in Miami was overshadowed by the Celtics, who led the conference at the All-Star break and had more All-Stars. For the Celtics, the All-Star game itself was unremarkable. Still, this was a fantastic time for a crucial Celtics basketball era.
Paul Pierce’s Atonement
Even while Pierce’s 2010 three-point contest win isn’t as famous or unforgettable as Bird’s, it was still a really amazing occasion. Pierce was keen to demonstrate his abilities and establish himself after eight years after his initial three-point shootout. Pierce wore his warm-up jacket throughout the competition as a tribute to Bird. In the decisive round, Pierce triumphed over freshman Steph Curry. In the decisive round, Pierce astoundingly made every money ball shot and defeated Curry 20 to 17. Other than Bird, Pierce is still the only other Celtic to win a three-point game.
