Bill Walton’s WILD 1986 Celtics Story About Larry Bird and One Wild Practice

One of the best Boston Celtics stories you’ll hear from the 1986 era.

Originally recorded in 2020, Bill Walton joined Bob Ryan for a hilarious, insightful conversation about the legendary 1986 Boston Celtics.

This clip dives into stories about Larry Bird, Danny Ainge, Ray Melchiorri, Bill Walton, and the moments that made that Celtics team unforgettable.

From Bird trying to end practice with a half-court shot, to Ray Melchiorri emptying his pockets and banking one in, to the chaos of that unforgettable Hawks playoff stretch, this is pure Celtics history.

Video includes rare footage from 1986 Boston Celtics practices and highlights from the team’s historic 24-0 run against the Atlanta Hawks at Boston Garden in May 1986.

If you’re into Boston Celtics stories, Bill Walton, Larry Bird history, classic NBA playoff moments, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of the greatest teams ever, this one delivers.

00:00 The 1986 Celtics grind
00:32 Larry Bird’s half-court challenge
01:28 Ray Melchiorri empties his pockets
02:02 The half-court bank shot
02:34 Why great teams always wanted more
03:02 The Hawks playoff avalanche
03:47 Tree Rollins loses it
04:18 Danny Ainge takes advantage