The history of the Boston Celtics is filled with championships, legendary players, and iconic moments that have defined the NBA for decades. However, beyond the banners and Hall of Fame names lies a collection of lesser-known stories that played a crucial role in shaping the franchise. April 12 is one such date that offers a fascinating glimpse into pivotal yet often overlooked moments in Celtics history.
One of the earliest milestones tied to this date occurred in 1948, when the Celtics named Alvin “Doggie” Fred Julian as just the second head coach in franchise history. Taking over from John Russell, Julian arrived from the College of the Holy Cross, a respected collegiate program that would later produce Celtics legend Bob Cousy. At the time, Boston was still a young franchise trying to establish itself in a competitive and evolving league.
Julian’s tenure with the Celtics, however, proved to be short-lived. Over the course of two seasons, he compiled a 47–81 record, struggling to guide the team to consistent success. Despite the challenges, his hiring was significant, as it reflected the organization’s early willingness to look to the college ranks for leadership. Ultimately, his inability to turn the team into a contender led to his dismissal at the end of his second season.
Even so, Julian’s coaching career did not end in Boston. He went on to become the head coach of Dartmouth’s men’s basketball program, where he spent nearly two decades building a strong and respected presence at the collegiate level. His journey serves as a reminder that success in basketball can take many forms, even if the NBA chapter does not go as planned.
April 12 also marks the birthday of former Celtics forward David Thirdkill, born in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1960. While not among the franchise’s most celebrated names, Thirdkill was part of one of the most dominant teams in NBA history. He played a role on the 1986 Celtics squad, a team widely regarded as one of the greatest ever assembled. Though his individual contributions were modest—averaging 2.8 points and 1.3 rebounds per game over two seasons—he was a member of a championship-winning roster, earning a place in Celtics history.
Perhaps the most intriguing story associated with this date came in 1982, involving a potential relocation that could have dramatically altered the team’s identity. At the time, Celtics owner Harry Mangurian explored the possibility of building a new arena on Boston’s North Shore, specifically in Revere, Massachusetts. The discussions, held with the owners of Suffolk Downs, were largely strategic in nature.
Mangurian’s consideration of a move was seen as a negotiating tactic aimed at addressing issues related to rent at Boston Garden, the historic arena the Celtics shared with the Boston Bruins. Tensions surrounding arena arrangements were not uncommon, and the idea of relocation briefly became a powerful bargaining chip.
For a moment, the possibility of the Celtics leaving Boston’s iconic home seemed real. A move to Revere would have represented a major shift, not just geographically but culturally, potentially changing how fans connected with the team. However, the situation took an unexpected turn when the Bruins themselves considered relocating to New Hampshire. This mutual uncertainty ultimately prevented any drastic changes, keeping both teams in Boston.
Looking back, it is remarkable how close the Celtics came to such a significant transformation. The idea of the franchise playing outside of its traditional home underscores how fragile even the most established institutions can be during moments of negotiation and transition.
These stories from April 12 highlight the complexities behind building and maintaining a successful sports franchise. From coaching decisions and player contributions to business strategies and near relocations, each moment plays a role in shaping the identity of a team. For the Boston Celtics, a franchise defined by greatness, it is these quieter, behind-the-scenes chapters that add depth to its rich and enduring legacy.
