A Step Forward in 1970

Young stars began to show up big for the “new” Boston Celtics as the team posted a winning record in 1970-71, though Boston finished just out of the playoffs. Led by rookie Dave Cowens and second-year man Jo Jo White, the Celtics increased their win total from the previous season by 10 games. “The Green needed a playmaker in the backcourt last year and White is the man the Celtics feel can fill the role. He has the skills to be an NBA superstar,” stated his 1970-71 yearbook player biography. White impressed by averaging 21.3 points in his sophomore season, most on the team behind only John Havlicek.