The Boston Celtics or their historic rival, the Philadelphia 76ers, aren’t playing tonight. But NBA enthusiasts around the world cannot contain their excitement at the prospect of their third game of the season tomorrow. Jaylen Brown was asked about the historic rivalry tonight during practice.

The two teams have been squaring for decades. As far back as NBA legends, Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell.

Jaylen Brown throws the Sixers-Celtics rivalry decades back

“It’s an honor to be able to compete… it goes back from the Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell days,” Brown said when asked about his thoughts on the continuing rivalry.

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Indeed, it does. From Chamberlain-Russell to Bird-Dr. J, the two powerhouses of the East have constantly clashed over the years. Aside from the team rivalry, the opposing star players’ intense competitive spirit has also provided juice for the ongoing feud.

Though “The Big Dipper” and “The Legacy” have had passionate matches, what took the good-natured rivalry to the next level would be when Bird and Erving had a hands-on contest on November 9, 1984. Getting a few punches in, then and again, is good for business.

Throughout their history, there have been noteworthy moments and players that laid the groundwork for this feud. While every match has a story of its own, the players that gift historical moments need to be revisited.

Notable Sixers-Celtics players over the years

The first names that come to anyone’s mind will be the classics – Chamberlain and Russell. A Philadelphia native, Wilt Chamberlain became the prayer of the Sixers throughout his tenure with the team. While leading ‘The City of Brotherly Love’ to championships, he has also carved out a personal niche for himself.

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The most notable of them: his 100-point record in a single game. One that no player since has been able to break. Bill Russell has transformed into a pillar for his team. Winning 11 championships in his 13 years with the Celtics, it is safe to say that no one else has ever done that.

Then comes Larry Bird and Julius Erving. Famously known for throwing punches at Boston Garden, the pair have led both their teams to great heights during their time. Another player who does not get much attention is probably a shooting guard of the Sixers – Andrew Toney. Nicknamed “Boston Strangler” for his much-feared single-handed domination on-court, Toney has been a 6’3 nightmare for Boston.

The 1980s were the Celtics’ down-time with Toney taking the floor. His memorable Game 7 34-point feat (1982) helped the 76ers clinch the subsequent title. The list is not complete without Paul Pierce and Allen Iverson. “The Truth” Pierce and the “Answer” Iverson were one of the most controversial players to step on the court.

Standing at just 6 feet, ‘A.I.’ made for what he lacked in height with his scoring prowess and shot-making among the 76ers. Pierce, however, became known for his crunch-time performances. Forming a Big 3 with Garnett and Allen, the trio led the Celtics to two NBA Finals and the 2008 title.

So there you have it. Some of the big names in the Celtics-Sixers rivalry. Which current players from both teams do you think will have their names written down in history? Write down your picks below!

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