Today in Boston Celtics history: McAdoo inducted into HoF, Red Claws become Maine Celtics

Today in Boston Celtics history, Bob McAdoo was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2000, alongside Detroit Pistons point guard Isiah Thomas and several other notable players.

McAdoo was, at best, a hesitant member of the Boston Celtics, having been traded to the franchise from the New York Knicks. He expressed concerns regarding the racial climate of the city, which was known for its hostility toward African Americans. Conversely, team president Red Auerbach was not consulted about the trade by ownership and nearly resigned as a result. However, all parties persevered for six months, after which McAdoo was traded to the Detroit Pistons.

McAdoo played 20 games for Boston, averaging 20.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2 assists per game with the franchise.

Historic milestones

Finally, it was on this day in 2021 that the Boston Celtics announced they were changing the name of their G League affiliate, the Maine Red Claws.

The familiar lobster mascot stayed but turned green, and the club was henceforth known as the (Portland) Maine Celtics.

This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Celtics history: McAdoo inducted into HoF, Red Claws become Maine Celtics