The Oklahoma City Thunder, succeeding the Seattle Supersonics, bear a rich jersey history with 51 numbers worn since the franchise's inception in the 1967-68 season. Among those numbers is No. 34, worn by 17 players, including Hall of Famer Ray Allen during the Supersonics era from 2003 to 2007. Allen, drafted fifth overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 1996, showcased his talent through stints with the Milwaukee Bucks before making a significant impact in Seattle. During his five seasons there, he recorded an impressive average of 24.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.3 steals per game while exclusively wearing No. 34.

The 2025 NBA Draft introduced an array of promising talents, with Cooper Flagg being the standout as he was selected first overall by the Dallas Mavericks. Flagg is heralded as one of the finest prospects in recent NBA history, and he aims to significantly contribute to the Mavericks’ quest for an NBA championship. Meanwhile, his teammate Kon Knueppel was drafted fourth by the Charlotte Hornets, expected to bring a different dynamic to his new team.

Knueppel is known for his exceptional perimeter shooting, boasting a 40.9% success rate from beyond the arc during his freshman year at Duke. He admires Ray Allen, a Boston Celtics legend, emphasizing that while he doesn’t emulate Allen’s style, he is inspired by his shooting prowess. Should Knueppel’s skills translate to the NBA, he has the potential to establish himself as a valuable asset in the league.

On this day in Celtics history, the franchise celebrated significant trades and draft picks that shaped its future. The most notable event was the trade for Ray Allen from the Seattle Supersonics, which helped set the stage for another blockbuster deal involving Kevin Garnett. This acquisition not only brought star power to Boston but also led to the team's championship aspirations.

In addition, the Celtics made key draft selections in 2006, 2007, and 2012. Jared Sullinger, drafted 21st overall in 2012, had a respectable tenure averaging 11.1 points and 7.7 rebounds during his four seasons with the team. Notably, the 2007 draft saw them select Jeff Green, who was later brought back to Boston after initial trade discussions. Other notable players drafted include Fab Melo, Kris Joseph, and Gabe Pruitt, who struggled to make a lasting impact on the team.

On this day in Celtics history, the Boston Celtics clinched their 17th championship by defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 131-92 in Game 6 of the 2008 NBA Finals. Kevin Garnett led the charge with 26 points and 14 rebounds, while Ray Allen matched his scoring effort. Rajon Rondo contributed 21 points, adding 8 rebounds and 6 assists, and Paul Pierce chipped in with 17 points and 10 rebounds. This moment also marked a reunion of the Celtics' legacy with Bill Russell, who expressed pride in Garnett's achievement.

The day is also significant for the Celtics' drafting of Len Bias, second overall in 1986, a moment that would turn tragic following his untimely death due to a drug overdose just days later. His loss would haunt the franchise and signal a long decline until their resurgence two decades later. Today also marks the birthday of Allan Ray, an undrafted free agent who played a single season with the Celtics, averaging 6.2 points per game.

On June 17, 2008, the Boston Celtics marked a historic moment by defeating the Detroit Pistons 89-81 in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals. This victory propelled them to their first NBA Finals appearance since 1987, where they would eventually claim their 17th championship title against their arch-rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers. The Celtics showcased the prowess of their core trio: Paul Pierce led with 27 points and 8 rebounds, Ray Allen added 17 points, while Kevin Garnett contributed 16 points and 6 rebounds. Despite trailing by 10 points in the fourth quarter, the Celtics rallied back, demonstrating resilience and teamwork.

Garnett expressed his disbelief, saying, “It’s kind of surreal,” reflecting the emotion of the moment post-game. His exhaustion was palpable, as he humorously mentioned their lack of sleep leading up to this crucial game. This day also marks a moment of remembrance for Ed Stanczak, who passed away in 2004. Stanczak, a former Celtics forward, had a brief NBA career but left a lasting legacy.