Boston Celtics · Franchise era 5 of 7
Pierce carries the bridge: the Boston Celtics story
Franchise era
1993–94—2006–07
Pierce carries the bridge
Boston Celtics
The story in one sentence
After tragedy and decline, Pierce became the franchise constant and eventually gave Boston a star worth building a new contender around.
01
Rebuilding around a singular scorer
02
Paul Pierce, Antoine Walker and Reggie Lewis gave the era its recognizable core.
03
Its ending created the conditions for the modern big three.
Timeline
How it unfolded
Before 1993–94
What came before
Bird restored Boston's place at the center of the league, and the frontcourt he formed with McHale and Parish won three titles.
2002
Eastern Conference Semifinals: Boston Celtics vs Detroit Pistons
2002
Eastern Conference Finals: Boston Celtics vs New Jersey Nets
2003
Eastern Conference Semifinals: Boston Celtics vs New Jersey Nets
After 2006–07
What came next
Garnett and Allen joined Pierce, transforming Boston overnight into a defensive champion and a two-Finals team.
The core