Celtics' Cincinnati Draft Picks: Quality from Unexpected Spots

0:00It's March 29th. This is Boston Celtics News today, AI-powered updates on your team. I'm Cory with the story. The Boston Celtics have always crushed it through the NBA draft, landing stars and key role players that built their dynasty. But today, let's zoom in on a specific pipeline, the University of Cincinnati. Over the years, Boston snagged just two bear cats in the draft, proving that quality can come from unexpected spots. Back in the 60s, the Celtics were dominating, and they turned to Cincinnati talent to keep the momentum. Ed Juckers' program was pumping out winners, fresh off that 1962 national title. Boston saw the potential and made moves on draft night. Ron Bonham, a sharp shooting wing, got picked in the second round, ninth selection, 18th overall in the 1964 draft. He played three seasons for the bear cats before joining Boston for two years, where he grabbed two championship rings, solid contributor on those stacked squads.

1:00Then there was Guard Gordon Smith, taken way later in the ninth round, ninth pick, 120 second overall in 1969. He also spent three years in Cincinnati, but couldn't crack the Celtics roster. Tough break, but it shows how deep the draft polls ran back then. Celtics fans know the drafts been their secret sauce for decades, and these Cincinnati picks highlight how even lake grabs or short stents added to the legacy. Keeps the green team story rich and real.