The Boston Celtics' jersey history is rich and varied, reflecting the legacy of numerous players who have donned the iconic green. With a total of 68 different jersey numbers used throughout its history, the franchise honors its past with 25 retired jerseys, celebrating some of the legends of the game.

Today, we focus on Xavier Tillman Sr., who currently wears number 26. A product of Michigan State, Tillman was selected 35th overall in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Sacramento Kings, but immediately found himself with the Memphis Grizzlies. After four seasons in Memphis, he was traded to the Celtics in 2024, where he continues to contribute to the team's efforts on the court.

The Boston Celtics face uncertainty at the center position heading into the 2025-26 NBA season. With the trade of Kristaps Porzingis to manage salary cap issues and the departure of Luke Kornet to the San Antonio Spurs, the team's frontcourt depth is in jeopardy. Veteran Al Horford's potential move to the Golden State Warriors further complicates the situation. Currently, the Celtics have only Neemias Queta and Xavier Tillman Sr. on their roster, alongside Luka Garza and Amari Williams, necessitating urgent roster adjustments.

The NBA playoffs are in full swing, showcasing the talents of former Michigan State basketball players. Draymond Green, a key figure for the Golden State Warriors, has continued to build on his legacy as a four-time NBA champion. The Warriors looked rejuvenated after acquiring Jimmy Butler and are set to face the Houston Rockets in the playoffs after a successful play-in game against Memphis.

Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies, another Spartan standout, is looking to make his mark in this postseason as his team gears up to face the winner of the Mavericks vs. Kings matchup. Max Christie, previously involved in one of the league's most notorious trades, is proving his worth with the Dallas Mavericks and aims to shine in their upcoming game. Meanwhile, Gary Harris and Xavier Tillman Sr. are also making their playoff debuts, with the Orlando Magic facing the Boston Celtics and Tillman looking to earn another ring. These Spartans continue to impact the NBA as they strive for championship glory.

Sam Hauser and Xavier Tillman Sr. explored life as bench players for the Boston Celtics in a recent podcast episode. They reminisced about their days at Michigan State, discussing the unique dynamic of being teammates on and off the court. The conversation highlighted the challenges and triumphs of coming off the bench for a championship team and the importance of maintaining a strong team cohesion.

This candid exchange provided insights into their roles and the camaraderie that exists among the Celtics bench players. Listeners can find the full discussion on the "On the Haus" podcast, where they delve into their journeys and experiences in Boston.