The rivalry between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Boston Celtics is one of the most storied in the history of the NBA. Spanning several decades, the two teams have met in tons of big time playoff series, with the winner often going on to win the NBA championship. Check out a breakdown of the history, games, stats, stories, and more between the Bucks & Celts:
The history of the rivalry between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Boston Celtics
The rivalry between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Boston Celtics began in the 1970s, when the two teams met in the playoffs for the first time. The Bucks, led by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Oscar Robertson, were one of the top teams in the league, while the Celtics, led by John Havlicek and Dave Cowens, were in the midst of a dynasty that would see them win 11 championships in 13 seasons. The two teams met in the playoffs in 1971, 1974, and 1983, with the Celtics winning all three series.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Bucks and Celtics met again in the playoffs, with the Bucks winning in 1986 and the Celtics winning in 1987 and 1991. These series were defined by the intense physical play and the many close games, with several of them going into overtime.
In the 2010s, the teams met again in the playoffs, the Bucks took the series in 2018, it was the first time the Bucks won a playoff series against the Celtics since 1983. The series was defined by Giannis Antetokounmpo’s performance, who was 21 years old at the time, and the Bucks won the series in 7 games.
Key players and coaches in the Bucks-Celtics rivalry over the years
The Bucks-Celtics rivalry has been defined by the great players and coaches who have been involved in it over the years. For the Bucks, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Oscar Robertson were the key players in the 1970s, while Marques Johnson, Sidney Moncrief, and Terry Cummings were key players in the 1980s. During the 2010s Giannis Antetokounmpo emerged as the key player for the Bucks, he was the main reason for the Bucks winning the 2018 playoff series.
For the Celtics, the key players have been John Havlicek, Dave Cowens, Larry Bird, Paul Pierce, and Kevin Garnett. Havlicek and Cowens were key players in the 1970s, while Bird and Garnett were key players in the 1980s and 2000s. Paul Pierce was key player during the 2010s.
As for coaches, the Bucks have had great coaches such as Larry Costello, Don Nelson, George Karl, and Mike Budenholzer. The Celtics have had great coaches such as Red Auerbach, Bill Fitch, K.C. Jones, and Doc Rivers.
When it comes to the Milwaukee Bucks vs Boston Celtics rivalry, there are quite a few memorable games and moments that stand out. So buckle up, because we’re about to take a trip down memory lane and relive some of the most iconic moments of this epic rivalry!
Big time games and smashmouth moments in the rivalry
One of the most memorable moments came during the 1974 NBA Finals, when the Bucks and Celtics met in a thrilling 7-game series. The series was filled with drama and tension, but the real highlight came in Game 6, when Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (then known as Lew Alcindor) hit a skyhook in the final seconds to give the Bucks the win and force a Game 7. Alcindor’s deft toss of the NBA basketball into the hoop was utterly majestic! The Bucks would ultimately lose Game 7, but that moment from Game 6 is still considered one of the greatest in NBA history.
Another unforgettable moment came in the 1986 Eastern Conference Finals. The teams met again in the playoffs, but this time the Bucks came out on top, winning a hard-fought series 4-3. The highlight of this series was the Game 7 matchup, which was a nail-biter that went into overtime. The Bucks’ Paul Pressey hit a clutch three-pointer to tie the game in the final seconds of regulation, and the Bucks went on to win in overtime. This series is remembered for the intensity and the closeness of the games.
Overall, during the 80s and 90s, the Bucks and Celtics had a pretty even head-to-head record in the regular season, with both teams winning around 50 games each. In the playoffs, the Celtics had a slight advantage, winning 4 out of the 6 series played during that period. The attendance for the games featuring these teams was also high, as both teams had a strong fan base. TV ratings for the games would also have been high as the rivalry was considered one of the most intense in the league during that period.
Fast forward to 2018, the teams met again in the playoffs, the Bucks took the series in 7 games. The series was defined by Giannis Antetokounmpo’s performance, who was 21 years old at the time, and his dominant play in the series. Game 4 was particularly memorable, as Giannis put up 52 points, 16 rebounds, and 5 assists to lead the Bucks to a win, it was one of the best individual performances in the playoffs.
But it’s not just the on-court moments that make this rivalry so special. There’s also the off-court drama, like the time in 1983 when Bucks’ coach Don Nelson was so convinced that the Celtics were stealing his plays that he had a team employee spy on their practices. Or the time in 1991 when the Bucks’ Brad Lohaus hit a game-winning three-pointer against the Celtics in Game 5 of the first round of the playoffs, and then proceeded to give the finger to the Boston crowd.
All in all, the Bucks-Celtics rivalry has given us some of the most iconic and unforgettable moments in NBA history. From nail-biting playoff series to clutch shots, to off-court drama, this rivalry has it all. So next time the two teams meet on the court, remember these moments and expect nothing less than an intense and exciting game!
Ray Allen’s role in the Bucks vs Celtics rivalry
Ray Allen, a future Hall of Famer, played for the Milwaukee Bucks from 1996 to 2002, during this period the Bucks and Celtics rivalry was still intense and competitive, but the teams had different levels of success. During Allen’s tenure with the Bucks, the team had a winning record and made the playoffs every year, and even reached the Eastern Conference finals in 2001.
On the other hand, the Boston Celtics during that time were not as successful, they missed the playoffs in three out of the six seasons Allen played for the Bucks, and they were not able to advance past the first round during that period.
Ray Allen was considered one of the best shooters in the league, he was the Bucks leading scorer during his time with the team, averaging more than 20 points per game. He was also a key player for the team during the playoffs, and his performances against the Celtics were notable.
The games featuring these teams during that period were intense and competitive, and Allen’s presence on the Bucks added a new dynamic to the rivalry, as he was considered one of the best players in the league at that time.
Overall, during Ray Allen’s tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks, the team was more successful than the Boston Celtics and Ray Allen’s performances were a key aspect of the Bucks’ success during that period, making the rivalry more exciting and intense. It is pretty funny though that Ray Allen, aka Jesus Shuttlesworth went on to star on the Celtics and finally win a championship for him. Of course, he ended up hitting the biggest shot in finals history with the dagger 3 off the pass from Bosh to tie the game against the Spurs in game 6 of the 2014 finals.
Paul Pierce’s role in the Celts Bucks beef
During Paul Pierce’s tenure with the Boston Celtics, which lasted from 1998 to 2013, the rivalry between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Boston Celtics was intense and competitive. Pierce was considered one of the best players in the league and one of the key players on the Celtics, he was a ten-time All-star and led the team to the NBA championship in 2008.
During this period, the Boston Celtics had a winning record against the Bucks in the regular season, and they also advanced to the playoffs multiple times, including the 2008 championship run. The Milwaukee Bucks, on the other hand, had a mixed record during this period, they made the playoffs a few times but were not able to advance to the finals.
Paul Pierce’s performances against the Bucks were notable, he was a high-scorer and had some memorable moments against the Bucks, including game-winning shots, and clutch performances. His performances were a key aspect of the Celtics’ success during that period, and made the rivalry more exciting.
The games between these teams during this period were intense and competitive, and the presence of Paul Pierce on the Boston Celtics added a new dynamic to the rivalry, as he was considered one of the best players in the league at that time.
Overall, during Paul Pierce’s tenure with the Boston Celtics, the team was more successful than the Milwaukee Bucks and Pierce’s performances were a key aspect of the Celtics’ success during that period, making the rivalry more exciting and intense.
The impact of the rivalry on the NBA as a whole
This rivalry has been one of the most intense and competitive in the history of the league, and it’s left a lasting impression on the game of basketball.
First off, let’s talk about the players involved. The Bucks and the Celtics have both had some of the most iconic and talented players to ever grace the court. From Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Oscar Robertson for the Bucks, to John Havlicek and Larry Bird for the Celtics, these players have not only left their mark on the rivalry, but on the league as a whole. Their legacies continue to inspire current and future players.
Then there’s the coaching aspect. Both teams have had some of the most successful coaches in NBA history. Names like Red Auerbach and Don Nelson will forever be etched in the annals of the league’s history. And let’s not forget the current coaches Mike Budenholzer and Brad Stevens, who are both considered to be among the best in the league.
The rivalry has also had a huge impact on the Eastern Conference. These two teams have been perennial powerhouses in the East, and their dominance has made the conference even more competitive. Whenever the Bucks and the Celtics meet in the playoffs, you can expect a barnburner of a series. It’s not just about the two teams, but about the whole conference and the level of competition.
But perhaps the biggest impact the rivalry has had is on the fans. The fans of these two teams are some of the most passionate in the league. Whether it’s the “Fear the Deer” chants from the Bucks fans or the “Let’s Go Celtics” from the Boston faithful, the energy and excitement in the arenas during these games is next level.
All in all, the Bucks vs Celtics rivalry has had a huge impact on the NBA. It’s not just about the two teams, but about the players, coaches, conference and the fans. It’s added to the drama and excitement of the league and it’s a rivalry that will always be remembered as one of the best and most intense in the league’s history.
The current state of the Celts/Bucks rivalry and future chance for more sizzling beef
First, let’s talk about the current players involved. The Bucks still have Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is considered one of the best players in the league and is leading the team to great success. The Celtics, on the other hand, have a new core of young players like Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Kemba Walker. These players are all All-stars caliber and are leading the team to the top of the Eastern Conference.
As for the coaches, the Bucks have Mike Budenholzer, who has proven to be one of the best coaches in the league, and the Celtics have Brad Stevens, who is also considered one of the best coaches in the league. Both coaches are known for their smart strategies, and their ability to develop and lead talented teams.
When it comes to the current state of the rivalry, it’s still as intense as ever. Even though the teams have not met in the playoffs for a few years, every time they play against each other it’s a highly anticipated matchup. The fans are still passionate, the players are still competitive, and the games are still close.
Looking to the future, the prospects of this rivalry are looking bright. With the young talented players on both teams and the experienced coaches leading them, the games between the two teams are bound to be thrilling and exciting. It’s safe to say that the Bucks vs Celtics rivalry is not going away anytime soon and we can expect many more intense and exciting games between these two teams.
In conclusion, the Milwaukee Bucks vs Boston Celtics rivalry may have a long history, but it is still as exciting as ever. The current players, coaches and fan’s passion make it a must-watch every time they play each other. And with the young talent and experienced coaches on both teams, the future looks bright for this rivalry. So, let’s sit back and enjoy the show, it’s going to be a cracker of a game!
The role of fans and support in the Bucks-Celtics rivalry
Yo, let’s talk about the role of fan culture and support in the Milwaukee Bucks vs Boston Celtics rivalry. This is like, one of the most intense rivalries in the NBA, and the fans are a huge part of why it’s so lit.
First off, let’s talk about the fans of the Bucks. They’re known for being some of the most passionate and dedicated in the league. When the team is playing well, you can expect the Fiserv Forum to be packed with fans wearing green and cream, and shouting “Fear the Deer” at the top of their lungs. It’s like, the energy in that arena is next level.
And then there’s the Celtics fans. They’re also known for being some of the most passionate and dedicated in the league. When the team is playing well, you can expect the TD Garden to be packed with fans wearing green and white, and shouting “Let’s Go Celtics” at the top of their lungs. It’s like, the energy in that arena is next level.
But it’s not just about the fans in the arenas, it’s also about the fans outside of the arenas. You’ve got the die-hard fans who will do anything to show their support for their team, whether it’s buying merchandise, tailgating before games, or even getting tattoos of their favorite players. It’s wild how dedicated these fans are.
And let’s not forget about the trash talk, this is an important part of fan culture and support. You’ve got the Bucks fans who are always talking trash to the Celtics fans, and vice versa. It’s all in good fun, but it definitely adds to the intensity of the rivalry.
The impact of the rivalry on the cities of Milwaukee and Boston
This rivalry is one of the most intense in the NBA and it’s had a big impact on both of these cities.
First, let’s talk about Milwaukee. When the Bucks are doing well and making deep runs in the playoffs, the city comes alive. The streets are filled with fans decked out in green and cream, and the energy is just electric. It’s like, the whole city is behind the team and it’s such a cool thing to see.
And then there’s Boston. When the Celtics are doing well and making deep runs in the playoffs, the city comes alive. The streets are filled with fans decked out in green and white, and the energy is just electric. It’s like, the whole city is behind the team and it’s such a cool thing to see.
But it’s not just about the energy during the playoffs, the rivalry also has an impact on the cities throughout the regular season. When the Bucks and Celtics play each other, it’s a big deal. People take off work, schools let out early, and the streets are filled with fans. It’s like, the whole city comes to a standstill to watch the game.
And let’s not forget about the economic impact. When a team is doing well, it can have a big impact on the local businesses. Restaurants, bars, and stores all see an increase in business. It’s like, the whole city benefits when the team is doing well.
Comparing Bucks & Celtics team stats and records during the beef
First, let’s talk about the regular season head to head. The Bucks and Celtics have played each other a total of 235 times in the regular season, with the Celtics winning 124 games and the Bucks winning 111 games. The teams have also tied in a game. The teams have a pretty close record in the regular season, with the Celtics having a slight advantage.
Now, let’s talk about the playoffs. The teams have met each other in the playoffs a total of 8 times, with the Celtics winning 6 of those series and the Bucks winning 2. It’s clear that the Celtics have had a better record in the playoffs, but it’s also worth mentioning that in recent years the Bucks have been able to win a series in 2018 which was the first time since 1983.
When it comes to individual players, both teams have had some of the best players in the league. The Bucks have had Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Oscar Robertson, Marques Johnson, Sidney Moncrief, and Giannis Antetokounmpo. On the other hand, the Celtics have had John Havlicek, Larry Bird, Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Bill Russell. Both teams have had tons and tons of talent over the years and it’s hard to compare one team’s players to the other. But it’s worth noting that both teams have had players who have been inducted into the Hall of Fame and have won multiple MVP awards.
Another aspect that is worth comparing is the team’s overall success. The Celtics have won a total of 17 championships, which is the most in the NBA, while the Bucks have won 2 championships. The Celtics have also made it to the finals 10 times, while the Bucks have made it twice. The Celtics have a more successful record overall, but the Bucks have been able to win the championship more recently.
When it comes down to it, the comparison of statistics and records between the Milwaukee Bucks and Boston Celtics during their rivalry is pretty close. Both teams have had their moments of dominance, but overall it’s been a pretty even matchup. It’s always exciting to see how these two teams stack up against each other, and it’s definitely a rivalry worth watching!
First, let’s talk about the impact on the players. The players on both teams have been some of the best in the league and they’ve left their mark on the game. Players like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Oscar Robertson, John Havlicek, and Larry Bird have all been a part of this rivalry and they’ve all left a lasting impact on the league. Their legacies continue to inspire current and future players.
Then there’s the impact on the coaches. The coaches of both teams have been some of the most successful in NBA history. Names like Red Auerbach, Don Nelson and Mike Budenholzer, and Brad Stevens will forever be etched in the annals of the league’s history. These coaches have had a big impact on the game and their strategies and techniques continue to be studied and imitated.
The rivalry has also had a big impact on the league’s overall competitiveness. Whenever the Bucks and the Celtics meet in the playoffs, you can expect a barnburner of a series. It’s not just about the two teams, but about the whole league and the level of competition. This rivalry has raised the bar for all teams to step up their game and play at a high level.
