Celtics' Draft Gems from Eastern Kentucky

0:00It's April 23rd. This is Boston Celtics News today, AI-powered stories from inside your team. The Boston Celtics have always crushed it through the NBA draft, landing stars and key role players that built their championships. But dig into the details, and you'll find talent from all kinds of colleges, including smaller spots like Eastern Kentucky University. They've pulled exactly two players straight from there over the years. That draft strategy paid off big time historically, with direct picks or trades on draft night filling rosters. Eastern Kentucky fits right into that mix, sending guys who fit the Celtics' gritty style, even if not household names. Fans love these deep cuts because they show how the team scouts everywhere, from big programs to under-the-radar schools. It highlights the franchise's eye for potential that turns into real contributions on the court. First up was Gar Carl Cole, snagged in the fourth round, eighth pick, 40th overall in the 1961 draft after three seasons at.

1:00Eastern Kentucky, he didn't crack the roster, then came Center Garfield Smith in 1968, third round, tenth pick, thirty second overall, also after three college years. He stuck. A round for two solid seasons. All this reminds us how the Celtics draft board stays wide open, unearthing gems from places you'd least expect to keep the legacy rolling strong.