1981 Cedric “Cornbread” Maxwell Boston Celtics World Championship Players Ring

The 1981 NBA Championship Ring of Cedric Maxwell: A Testament to Glory

A Legendary Season for the Boston Celtics

In the annals of NBA history, the 1980-81 season stands out as a pivotal moment for the Boston Celtics. Under the strategic acumen of Red Auerbach, the Celtics fortified their roster with the acquisition of Robert Parish and Kevin McHale, joining forces with the likes of Larry Bird, Cedric “Cornbread” Maxwell, and Nate Archibald. This formidable lineup set the stage for a season of triumph and resilience.

The Celtics’ journey to the championship was marked by a dramatic comeback in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Philadelphia 76ers. After trailing 1-3, the Celtics mirrored their 1968 playoff comeback, defeating the 76ers in a thrilling seven-game series. This victory propelled them to the NBA Finals, where they faced the Houston Rockets, a team that had defied expectations by reaching the Finals for the first time in their history.

Maxwell’s Pivotal Role in the Finals

In the 1981 NBA Finals, Cedric Maxwell emerged as a beacon of consistency and excellence. Despite the Celtics being heavily favored, the series was fiercely contested. Maxwell’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, culminating in him being awarded the Finals MVP trophy by NBA Commissioner Larry O’Brien. His contributions were instrumental in securing the Celtics’ 14th NBA Championship, a feat celebrated by the retirement of his jersey number 31 in 2003.

The Championship Ring: A Symbol of Triumph

The 1981 NBA Championship ring, a size 10 crafted in 14k gold and weighing 35 grams, is a tangible symbol of the Celtics’ victory. The ring’s design is both elegant and meaningful:

• Top Panel: Inscribed with “NBA WORLD CHAMPIONS,” it features a large .60-carat round-cut diamond set atop a green stone.
• Left Panel: Displays the year “1981” alongside a casted and enameled NBA logo, with the word “TEAMWORK” engraved beneath.
• Right Panel: Bears the name “MAXWELL” above a casted and enameled clover, symbolizing the Celtics, with “XIV” denoting the team’s 14th championship. The word “PRIDE” is engraved below.

The ring is in Near Mint (NRMT) condition, exhibiting light wear, and is stamped “BALFOUR 14K” on the inside. It is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from Cedric Maxwell himself, further enhancing its provenance and value.

A Coveted Piece of Basketball Memorabilia

This championship ring is not merely a piece of jewelry; it is a revered artifact of basketball memorabilia, embodying a storied chapter in the Boston Celtics’ illustrious history. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, it represents an opportunity to own a piece of the legacy of one of the NBA’s most celebrated franchises.

For those interested in exploring more about such historic items, Grey Flannel Auctions offers a diverse array of sports memorabilia. Whether you wish to consign sports memorabilia or seek appraisals for your treasured items, our platform is your gateway to the world of sports history.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.