1981 Stephen Riley’s Boston Celtics NBA Championship Ring
(Riley LOA)
The 1981 Boston Celtics Championship Ring: A Testament to Basketball Greatness
A Historic Season for the Celtics
The 1980-81 NBA season was a defining moment for the Boston Celtics, a team already brimming with talent. Under the strategic guidance of Red Auerbach, the Celtics fortified their roster by acquiring Kevin McHale and Robert Parish, joining forces with Larry Bird, Cedric “Cornbread” Maxwell, and Nate Archibald. This formidable lineup, known as “The Big Three,” became one of the most revered front lines in NBA history.
In the 1981 playoffs, the Celtics showcased their prowess by sweeping the Chicago Bulls in the Conference Semifinals. They then faced a familiar foe, Julius Erving and the Philadelphia 76ers, in the Eastern Finals. In a thrilling series, the Celtics overcame a 1-3 deficit to triumph in seven games, echoing their 1968 playoff comeback.
Conquering the NBA Finals
The Celtics’ journey culminated in the NBA Finals against the Houston Rockets, a team that had defied expectations by defeating the defending champion Lakers. The series was fiercely contested, with each team winning a game by a narrow margin. However, the Celtics’ dominance was evident in Game 3, where they secured a commanding 23-point victory. Despite a resilient performance by Houston in Game 4, Boston clinched the championship with a decisive 11-point victory in Game 6, marking their 14th NBA Championship.
The Championship Ring: A Symbol of Excellence
This exquisite size 11.5, 14k gold front office ring, weighing 35 grams, is a tangible representation of the Celtics’ triumph. The top panel proudly displays “NBA WORLD CHAMPIONS,” encircling a nearly .70-carat round-cut diamond set atop an emerald-like green synthetic stone. The right panel features a banner with the name “RILEY” above a green enameled clover, emblazoned with “CELTICS” and “XIV,” signifying the team’s 14th championship. Adjacent below is a small banner inscribed with “PRIDE.” The left panel reads “1981” and showcases a green enameled official NBA logo. The ring is in NRMT condition with light wear and is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from Stephen Riley, Vice President of Sales for the Boston Celtics.
Why This Ring Matters
- Historical Significance: Commemorates the Celtics’ 14th NBA Championship, a testament to their dominance in the league.
- Iconic Design: Features intricate details and precious materials, reflecting the prestige of the championship.
- Provenance: Accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from a key figure in the Celtics organization.
- Condition: Maintained in near-mint condition, preserving its historical and aesthetic value.
This championship ring is not just a piece of jewelry; it is a symbol of the Celtics’ enduring legacy and a cherished artifact in the world of basketball memorabilia. For those interested in acquiring or selling such remarkable items, Grey Flannel Auctions offers unparalleled opportunities to engage with sports memorabilia of the highest caliber. Whether you wish to consign sports memorabilia or explore our extensive collection, we invite you to be part of this extraordinary journey through basketball history.
* This text was generated from the original auction listing.