For the first time in 22 years, the 2008 Boston Celtics won that elusive NBA championship, the one goal in the mind of every player and coach when the Big Three was composed. With the leadership of Kevin Garnett, the clutch play of Paul Pierce, and the sharp shooting of Ray Allen, they dominated the league that season. Now its three years later, and because of diminishing health and increasing age, they have yet to feel that glory since. They’ve come as close as they can (having an 11 point lead in the 3rd quarter in game 7 of the NBA Finals) without having success. However, the 2011 season is feeling a little different. Although Perkins and Nate Robinson have been traded, Shaquille O’Neal has joined the squad, and Rajon Rondo continues to climb the ranks of top point guards in the league. At the halfway mark, the Celtics stand at the top of the Eastern Conference and have beaten the controversial, but incredibly talented team down in Miami three times – proving to the world who the real “Big Three” are. And after February 10, the C’s earned even more bragging rights. Their shooting guard now holds the record for most three point shots ever made.
Ray Allen started his NBA career as a Milwaukee Buck, hitting 1051 three balls in 7 years, then went on to the play for the Seattle SuperSonics, continuing the artistry with 869 in 4 years. After the February 10 game against the Lakers, Allen reached 642 as a Celtic and 2562 in total, surpassing Reggie Miller’s former record of 2560. As soon as he caught the assist from Rondo in a fast break, Ray pulled up for a deep three, about two feet behind the line, and watched the ball fall through the net along with the eighteen thousand ecstatic fans in the TD Garden. As soon as he knocked it down, he ran over to the announcing booth occupied by Marv Albert, Steve Kerr, and Miller himself where he gave the former record holder a hug, shook his hand, and displayed a tremendous amount of class. Shortly after, Miller explained how “this is one of the best guys, so humble, he’s so giving, he’s a great family man, and I’m excited.” He then went on to explain how Allen has similar techniques to himself, working hours on end each day for that perfect jumper. Ray wouldn’t be the pure shooter he is without his near obsessive compulsive methods, being the first in the gym and last to leave it each practice. When combined with hours of work on his stroke before games, it’s no wonder that he has developed such an impressive talent with immaculate form.
Ray Allen has had a long and impressive career in the NBA–so far at least. He is one fifth of the starting lineup that is best in the Eastern Conference, in the best basketball league in the world. He is arguably the best shooter to play the game, and possesses one of the better personalities too. There’s only one more things he’s go to do, and that’s help Boston get number 18.
