The phrase refers to a period, primarily in the early years of the Boston Celtics franchise, where a significant number of players on the team were of Jewish descent. This contrasts with later periods in the team’s history, when the composition of the roster became more diverse. For example, Nat Holman, though primarily known as a coach and innovator in basketball, briefly played for the Celtics in their inaugural season.
The existence of a notable contingent of Jewish players during the team’s formative years offers insights into the social and demographic context of professional basketball at that time. It highlights the opportunities that professional sports, despite prevailing societal prejudices, provided for athletes of various backgrounds. It also reflects the participation of Jewish individuals in the broader landscape of American sports history, often overlooked in mainstream narratives.