The NBA is known for its fierce rivalries, and among the most storied and intense is the clash between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Boston Celtics. This rivalry, spanning decades, is more than just about basketball; it’s a battle between two of the most passionate sports cities in America. Whether it’s the historical significance, the unforgettable matchups, or the iconic players who have donned these jerseys, the rivalry between the 76ers and the Celtics stands out as one of the greatest in the NBA.
Both teams have left indelible marks on the league’s history, with numerous championships, legendary players, and memorable moments. As fans gear up for another season of hard-fought games between these Eastern Conference titans, let’s delve into the rich history, classic matchups, and what makes the rivalry between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Boston Celtics so special.
For those interested in catching a game, you can find the 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center, 3601 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19148 and the Celtics at the TD Garden, 100 Legends Way, Boston, MA 02114. Tickets and more information can be found on their official websites: www.nba.com/sixers for the 76ers and www.nba.com/celtics for the Celtics.
Philadelphia 76ers vs. Boston Celtics Tickets – 2024-2025 Season
The Origins of the Rivalry
Early Encounters: 1950s and 1960s
The seeds of the Philadelphia 76ers vs. Boston Celtics rivalry were planted in the 1950s when the then Syracuse Nationals (who later became the 76ers) faced off against the Celtics. However, it was in the 1960s that the rivalry truly began to heat up. During this decade, the Celtics, led by Bill Russell, were a dominant force, winning multiple championships. The 76ers, boasting stars like Wilt Chamberlain, were one of the few teams that could challenge Boston’s supremacy.
The rivalry reached its peak in 1967 when the 76ers, after years of falling short, finally dethroned the Celtics in the Eastern Division Finals. That season, the 76ers went on to win the NBA Championship, a triumph that remains one of the franchise’s most significant achievements. The victory over Boston was particularly sweet, as it ended the Celtics’ run of eight consecutive championships.
The 1980s: A Decade of Intensity
The 1980s were perhaps the most intense period of the 76ers-Celtics rivalry. During this decade, both teams were at the height of their powers, and their matchups were often seen as the true NBA Finals, with the winner expected to go on and claim the championship. The 76ers, led by Julius Erving (Dr. J), and the Celtics, with Larry Bird at the helm, engaged in epic battles that are still talked about today.
One of the most memorable series took place in 1981 when the Celtics came back from a 3-1 deficit in the Eastern Conference Finals to defeat the 76ers in seven games. The series was fiercely contested, with multiple games decided in the final moments. This comeback cemented Boston’s place in NBA history and added another layer to the rivalry.
The 76ers got their revenge in 1982, defeating the Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals and going on to win the NBA Championship in 1983. The 1980s were marked by incredible talent on both sides, and the rivalry helped define the decade for the NBA.
Key Moments and Classic Matchups
Wilt Chamberlain vs. Bill Russell
One of the earliest and most iconic player matchups in the 76ers-Celtics rivalry was between Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell. Chamberlain, known for his scoring prowess and rebounding ability, was a dominant force, while Russell was the cornerstone of Boston’s defense, renowned for his shot-blocking and leadership.
The battles between these two legends are the stuff of NBA folklore. Chamberlain’s scoring feats, including his famous 100-point game, are well-known, but it was often Russell who had the last laugh, with the Celtics frequently coming out on top in their postseason encounters. Their rivalry embodied the contrast between individual brilliance (Chamberlain) and team success (Russell).
The 1982 Eastern Conference Finals
The 1982 Eastern Conference Finals is often cited as one of the greatest playoff series in NBA history. The 76ers and Celtics were evenly matched, with both teams featuring multiple future Hall of Famers. The series went to seven games, with the 76ers ultimately emerging victorious after a hard-fought battle.
Game 7 in Boston Garden was particularly memorable. The 76ers jumped out to an early lead and managed to hold off a furious Celtics comeback, securing a 120-106 victory. The image of the 76ers’ players walking off the court, with Philadelphia fans chanting “Beat L.A.!” in anticipation of the NBA Finals, remains one of the most iconic moments in the rivalry.
Allen Iverson and the Modern Era
The rivalry took on new life in the late 1990s and early 2000s with the arrival of Allen Iverson in Philadelphia. Iverson, known for his fearless play and scoring ability, quickly became one of the most popular and polarizing players in the league. The 76ers and Celtics met in several memorable regular-season and playoff games during this era, with Iverson often taking center stage.
One of the most notable encounters came in the 2002 playoffs when the Celtics, led by Paul Pierce and Antoine Walker, defeated the 76ers in the first round. Although the Celtics were victorious, the series highlighted the intense competition and physical play that had become hallmarks of the rivalry.
The Teams Today: Current Roster and Outlook
Philadelphia 76ers: Building a Championship Contender
The Philadelphia 76ers have undergone significant changes in recent years, with the franchise focusing on building a championship contender around their star players, Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Under the leadership of head coach Nick Nurse, the 76ers have emerged as one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference, consistently competing for a deep playoff run.
Joel Embiid: The Heart of the 76ers
Joel Embiid, the dominant center, has become the face of the franchise and one of the most feared players in the NBA. Known for his scoring, defense, and charismatic personality, Embiid has embraced the challenge of leading the 76ers back to championship glory. His battles with the Celtics, particularly in the playoffs, have added a new chapter to the rivalry, with Boston often seen as the primary obstacle in Philadelphia’s path to the Finals.
Tyrese Maxey: The Rising Star
Tyrese Maxey, the electrifying young guard, has quickly become a fan favorite in Philadelphia. His speed, scoring ability, and relentless work ethic have endeared him to 76ers fans, and he is viewed as a key piece of the team’s future. Maxey’s performances against the Celtics have been particularly noteworthy, as he continues to establish himself as one of the league’s rising stars.
Boston Celtics: A Legacy of Excellence
The Boston Celtics, with their rich history and 17 NBA championships, remain one of the most successful and respected franchises in sports. The current Celtics team, led by stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, is poised to add to the team’s legacy, with a focus on returning to the Finals and capturing another title.
Jayson Tatum: The Next Celtic Legend
Jayson Tatum, a versatile forward with an all-around game, has emerged as the leader of the Celtics. Known for his scoring, defense, and clutch performances, Tatum has quickly become one of the NBA’s top players. His battles with the 76ers, particularly in the playoffs, have added to his growing legend, with Tatum often rising to the occasion in the biggest moments.
Jaylen Brown: The Perfect Complement
Jaylen Brown, the dynamic wing player, complements Tatum perfectly, providing the Celtics with a formidable duo. Brown’s athleticism, defense, and scoring ability make him a crucial part of Boston’s success. Together, Tatum and Brown have led the Celtics to multiple deep playoff runs, with their sights set firmly on bringing another championship to Boston.
Head-to-Head: Notable Playoff Series
2018 Eastern Conference Semifinals
One of the more recent playoff encounters between the 76ers and Celtics came in the 2018 Eastern Conference Semifinals. The Celtics, despite missing key players like Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward due to injury, managed to defeat the 76ers in five games. The series was marked by Boston’s young players, including Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, stepping up in crucial moments, while the 76ers, led by Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, struggled to find consistency.
This series was seen as a coming-of-age moment for the Celtics’ young core, while also highlighting the 76ers’ need to grow and develop their roster further. The loss was a bitter pill for Philadelphia, but it served as a valuable learning experience for the team.
2020 NBA Playoffs: A Bubble Showdown
In 2020, the NBA season was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to the playoffs being held in a bubble environment in Orlando, Florida. The 76ers and Celtics met in the first round of the playoffs, with Boston sweeping Philadelphia in four games. The series was particularly disappointing for the 76ers, who were without Ben Simmons due to injury and struggled to compete with the Celtics’ depth and talent.
The sweep led to significant changes in Philadelphia, including the dismissal of head coach Brett Brown and a renewed focus on building a team capable of competing for a championship. For the Celtics, the victory was another chapter in their dominance over the 76ers in recent years, further fueling the rivalry.
The Cities: Philadelphia vs. Boston
The Passion of Philadelphia
Philadelphia is known for its passionate sports fans, and the 76ers are no exception. The city’s love for basketball runs deep, with fans packing the Wells Fargo Center for every home game, creating one of the most intense and electric atmospheres in the NBA. Philadelphia fans are known for their loyalty and their high expectations, demanding nothing less than excellence from their team.
The city’s sports culture is deeply intertwined with its identity, and the 76ers, along with the Eagles, Phillies, and Flyers, are central to that culture. The rivalry with Boston is particularly intense, as Philadelphia fans relish the opportunity to defeat their northern rivals and assert their dominance in the Eastern Conference.
The Legacy of Boston
Boston, with its rich sports history, is home to some of the most successful franchises in American sports. The Celtics, with their 17 NBA championships, are a source of immense pride for the city, and the team’s success has helped shape Boston’s identity as a sports powerhouse. The TD Garden, where the Celtics play their home games, is a cathedral of basketball, steeped in history and tradition.
Boston fans are fiercely loyal and knowledgeable about the game, with a deep appreciation for the Celtics’ legacy of excellence. The rivalry with Philadelphia is seen as one of the key matchups on the schedule each year, with Boston fans eager to see their team continue its dominance over the 76ers.
The Future of the Rivalry
Emerging Stars and New Chapters
As both the 76ers and Celtics continue to build their teams for the future, the rivalry is set to enter a new chapter. With stars like Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Jayson Tatum, and Jaylen Brown leading the way, the battles between these two teams are sure to be must-watch events for years to come. The rivalry will continue to evolve, with each new season bringing fresh storylines and new heroes.
Championship Aspirations
Both the 76ers and Celtics have their sights set on winning championships, and the road to the NBA Finals often runs through the Eastern Conference. As long as these two teams remain among the top contenders, their rivalry will continue to be one of the defining features of the NBA. The battles for playoff positioning, home-court advantage, and ultimately, the chance to compete for a title will keep the rivalry as fierce as ever.
How to Experience the Rivalry Live
Attending a Game
For fans looking to experience the intensity of the 76ers-Celtics rivalry firsthand, attending a game is a must. The atmosphere at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia and TD Garden in Boston is electric when these two teams face off, with both sets of fans bringing their passion and energy to the arena.
- Wells Fargo Center: Located at 3601 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19148, the Wells Fargo Center is the home of the Philadelphia 76ers. Tickets and more information can be found on the 76ers’ official website at www.nba.com/sixers.
- TD Garden: Located at 100 Legends Way, Boston, MA 02114, TD Garden is the home of the Boston Celtics. Tickets and more information can be found on the Celtics’ official website at www.nba.com/celtics.
Watching from Home
For those who can’t make it to the arena, watching the games on television or streaming online is the next best thing. Nationally televised games between the 76ers and Celtics are often featured on networks like ESPN, TNT, and ABC, while local broadcasts are available through NBC Sports Philadelphia and NBC Sports Boston.
Conclusion: A Rivalry That Endures
The rivalry between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Boston Celtics is one of the most enduring and compelling in the NBA. From the early days of Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell to the modern battles between Joel Embiid and Jayson Tatum, this rivalry has provided countless unforgettable moments and continues to captivate basketball fans around the world.
As the 76ers and Celtics continue to battle for supremacy in the Eastern Conference, the rivalry will only grow stronger, with each game adding to the rich history between these two iconic franchises. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the 76ers, a devoted Celtics supporter, or just a basketball enthusiast, the Philadelphia 76ers vs. Boston Celtics rivalry is a must-watch event that embodies the spirit and passion of the NBA.
