Red Auerbach Quotes

A collection of quotes by Red Auerbach.

Arnold "Red" Auerbach (1917-2006) was an American basketball coach and executive, best known for his legendary tenure with the Boston Celtics. Born on September 20, 1917, in Brooklyn, New York, Auerbach went on to have an extensive and illustrious career in the basketball world.

Auerbach's coaching career began in 1946 when he took the helm of the Washington Capitols in the Basketball Association of America (BAA). In 1950, he joined the Boston Celtics as a coach and quickly revolutionized the game with his innovative strategies and emphasis on team play. Under his leadership, the Celtics won a remarkable nine NBA championships during the 1960s, earning Auerbach the reputation as one of the most successful coaches in basketball history.

After stepping down as head coach in 1966, Auerbach continued to make significant contributions to the sport. He assumed the role of Celtics' general manager, where he built teams that went on to win an additional seven NBA championships in the 1970s and 1980s. Known for his shrewd drafting and player acquisitions, Auerbach played a vital role in shaping the Celtics into one of the most dominant franchises in NBA history.

Beyond his success in coaching and management, Auerbach made numerous valuable contributions to the sport off the court. He helped in the development of the NBA Draft, introduced the concept of the sixth man, and was a vocal advocate for racial equality in basketball, actively promoting and signing talented African American players.

Red Auerbach's influence on the sport of basketball is unparalleled. Regarded as a visionary and a pioneer, he left an indelible mark on the game through his strategic brilliance, leadership abilities, and dedication to teamwork. His legacy continues to resonate in the basketball world to this day.