Boston Celtics Raise Number 17.... Will Paul Pierce Be There For 18?

When Danny Ainge brought Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen to Boston, a championship was on Paul Pierce's mind. "The Big Three," with the help from second-year point guard Rajon Rondo, brought home the Celtics' 17th NBA Championship last season. It was the first title in their illustrious Hall-of-Fame careers, and the first in Boston since the 1985-86 season. Pierce, who was drafted by Boston in 1998 out of Kansas, finally got the help he needed. Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen both were leaders on their former teams, but were never able to win a title. Those past failures caused "The Big Three" to set their eyes on a title, not personal accomplishments. The Celtics also got veteran help off of the bench with the likes of Sam Cassell and Eddie House. But with Boston having hoisted their 17th NBA title, will Pierce be there for the 18th? Pierce, Garnett, and Allen now know what it takes to be champions, and with young stars in Boston, the future looks very promising. Danny Ainge, who has ... (link)