NBA's Greatest Players in History: Paul Pierce

• 10-time NBA All-Star and 4-time All-NBA selection
• 2008 NBA Finals MVP, leading the Celtics to their 17th championship
• Ranks 16th on the NBA all-time scoring list
• Member of the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team

Paul Pierce, known as "The Truth", was a prolific scorer and clutch performer who became one of the greatest players in Boston Celtics history during his 15-year tenure with the franchise.

Overview

Paul Pierce's journey from a Lakers fan growing up in California to becoming a Celtics legend is a testament to his adaptability and skill. Selected 10th overall in the 1998 NBA Draft, Pierce quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the franchise, showcasing a versatile offensive game that would earn him the nickname "The Truth" from none other than Shaquille O'Neal.

Career snapshot

Pierce's career was marked by consistent excellence and steady improvement. He increased his scoring average in each of his first four seasons, culminating in his first All-Star selection in 2002 while averaging 26.1 points per game. His impact was immediate, averaging 16.5 points and shooting 41% from three-point range as a rookie, signalling to the Celtics that they had indeed found a first-round gem.

Playing style

Pierce described his game as "a bowl of gumbo" - a little bit of everything mixed in. He was a complete offensive player, capable of scoring from anywhere on the court. His ability to create his own shot, coupled with a deadly three-point stroke and a knack for getting to the free-throw line, made him one of the most difficult players to defend in the league. Pierce's game was not just about scoring; he was also an underrated passer and a strong rebounder for his position.

Why Paul Pierce is on our list

Paul Pierce's inclusion on the list of most dominant NBA players is justified by his consistent excellence, clutch performances, and his pivotal role in rejuvenating the Celtics franchise. He ranks in the top 10 in Celtics history for total points, rebounds, and assists - a feat shared by only four other players in the storied franchise's history. His leadership was crucial in bringing the Celtics back to championship glory in 2008, where he earned Finals MVP honours.

Five Fast Facts

1. Nicknamed "The Truth" by Shaquille O'Neal after a 42-point performance against the Lakers in 2001
2. Made 13 shots for the lead in the final five seconds of the fourth quarter or overtime in his career, placing him in the top 7 all-time
3. Played 45,768 total minutes (including playoffs) for the Celtics, third only to John Havlicek and Bill Russell
4. Had his No. 34 jersey retired by the Celtics in 2018
5. Enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2021

Career Highlights Timeline

1998: Drafted 10th overall by the Boston Celtics

2002: Made his first All-Star team, averaging 26.1 points per game

2002: Led the Celtics to the Eastern Conference Finals, averaging 24.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in the playoffs

2008: Won NBA Championship and Finals MVP, averaging 21.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 6.3 assists in the Finals

2010: Reached the NBA Finals again with the Celtics

2013: Traded to the Brooklyn Nets after 15 seasons with the Celtics

2017: Played his final NBA season with the Los Angeles Clippers

2018: Had his No. 34 jersey retired by the Boston Celtics

2021: Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

Paul Pierce's legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics. He was the face of the Celtics franchise during a period of rebuilding and ultimately led them back to championship contention. His clutch performances, including 13 game-winning shots in the final seconds, cemented his reputation as a player who thrived under pressure.

Pierce's impact on the game was not limited to his on-court performances. He was a leader in the locker room and on the practice floor, setting an example for younger players and embodying the gritty, never-say-die attitude that defined the Celtics' ethos.

His versatility as a scorer made him a nightmare for defenders. Pierce could punish smaller defenders in the post, blow by larger defenders on the perimeter, and hit clutch three-pointers with ease. His footwork and ability to create space for his jump shot were particularly noteworthy, allowing him to get his shot off even against tight defence.

While Pierce spent the majority of his career with the Celtics, his late-career stints with the Nets, Wizards, and Clippers showcased his adaptability and veteran leadership. Even in these twilight years, he continued to make crucial plays, such as his game-winning bank shot in the 2015 playoffs with Washington.

Pierce's inclusion in the Celtics' 75th Anniversary All-Celtics Team further cements his place in the franchise's illustrious history. He stands alongside legends like Bill Russell, Larry Bird, and John Havlicek as one of the greatest to ever wear Celtic green.

In conclusion, Paul Pierce's combination of scoring prowess, clutch performance, leadership, and longevity make him one of the most dominant players in NBA history. His journey from a Lakers fan to a Celtics legend is a testament to his skill, adaptability, and competitive spirit. "The Truth" indeed lived up to his nickname, leaving an indelible mark on the game of basketball and securing his place among the NBA's all-time greats.

NBA's Greatest of All-Time List: Click the player's name to read their profile