Detroit Pistons Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas was one of the Boston Celtics of the 1980s’ biggest rival point guards, but Thomas developed a real respect for the Celtics during his heyday on the court, and it lasted long after he left it.
In an interview with CLNS Media’s Cedric Maxwell, the Pistons legend shared a story about a message he received from legendary Boston big man Bill Russell and a tale about iconic Celtics executive Red Auerbach, discussing his admiration for the Celtics. Thomas also talks about Boston’s reputation for starting African-American players, their influence as both rivals and teachers and Auerbach’s groundbreaking decision to make Bill Russell the first black head coach.
Take a look at the clip embedded below to hear the interview in full courtesy of the “NBA History and Storytellers on CLNS” official YouTube channel.
Listen to the “Celtics Lab” podcast on:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3zBKQY6
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3GfUPFi
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3F9DvjQ
