Red Auerbach
Inducted:
1969
Stats
5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
170 lb (77 kg)
Born
September 20, 1917
Brooklyn, New York, U.S.
Died
October 28, 2006
Washington, D.C., U.S.
Position
Coach
College
Seth Low JC (1936–1937)
George Washington (1937–1940)
Red Auerbach was one of the most influential coaches in NBA history, building the Boston Celtics into the league's first great dynasty. Known for his leadership, innovation, and ability to develop talent, he coached the Celtics from 1950 to 1966 and guided the franchise to nine NBA championships, including an unprecedented eight consecutive titles from 1959 to 1966. Auerbach revolutionized the game by emphasizing fast breaks, unselfish teamwork, and strong defense. He revolutionized the sport by developing the modern fast break and creating the strategic concept of the "Sixth Man."
He also played a major role in breaking racial barriers, becoming the first NBA coach to start an all-Black lineup and helping appoint Bill Russell as the league's first Black head coach. After leaving the bench, he remained a successful executive, adding more championships to Boston's legacy. His lasting impact on basketball earned him induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1969 as a coach.
Auerbach's Awards and Honor
- First NBA coach to start an all-Black lineup
- Helped make Bill Russell the NBA's first Black head coach
- Coached the Boston Celtics to nine NBA titles (most by any head coach)
- Led the Celtics to an NBA-record eight consecutive championships
NBA Records
- 9× NBA champion (1957, 1959–1966)
- 8 consecutive NBA championships (1959–1966)
- NBA Coach of the Year (1965)
- 11× NBA All-Star Game head coach (1957–1967)
- NBA anniversary team (25th, 35th)
- Top 10 Coaches in NBA History
- Top 15 Coaches in NBA History
NBA Teams
Washington Capitols (1946–1949)
Tri-Cities Blackhawks (1949–1950)
Boston Celtics (1950–1966)
NBA Records
Coaching career:
1946–1966
NBA Seasons:
20
Game Coached:
1,147
Wins:
938
Losses (NCAA):
479
Win(%):
.662
Playoff Record:
99–69
NBA Championships:
9