Frank Ramsey
Inducted:
1982
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born
July 13, 1931
Corydon, Kentucky, U.S.
Died
July 8, 2018
Madisonville, Kentucky, U.S.
Position
Small forward
Shooting guard
College
Kentucky (1950–1954)
Frank Ramsey was one of the NBA’s first and most celebrated “sixth men,” excelling as a versatile forward for the Boston Celtics from 1954 to 1964. Known for his scoring, smart defense, and team-first mindset, Ramsey played a key role in the Celtics’ dynasty, helping the team win seven NBA championships. His ability to come off the bench and provide instant offense set a standard for future NBA role players.
Ramsey was a four-time NBA All-Star and consistently contributed in both scoring and rebounding while embracing a team-oriented style. He retired with over 8,000 points and 3,000 rebounds, leaving a lasting legacy as a pioneer of the sixth-man role. Ramsey was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1982, recognizing his critical contributions to Boston’s championship success and the evolution of team play.
Ramsey's Awards & Records
- NCAA champion (1951)
- Consensus second-team All-American (1954)
- Second-team All-American – AP, UPI (1952)
- Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1951)
- 3× All-American (1951, 1952, 1954)
- 23 retired by Boston Celtics
NBA Records
- 7× NBA champion (1957, 1959–1964)
- NBA 25th Anniversary Team (Finalist)
NBA Teams
Boston Celtics (1954–1955,1956–1964)
NBA Draft
1953: 1st round, 5th overall pick
Boston Celtics
Number Worn
23
NBA Stats
Season:
9 (1954-1964)
Games Played:
623
Points:
8,378 (13.4 ppg)
Rebounds:
3,410 (5.5 rpg)
Assists:
1,134 (1.8 apg)
Field Goal %:
39.9%
Free Throw %:
84.1%
Playoff Game:
98