Barrett, Twice a Celtics Player

Ernie Barrett played two separate one-year contracts with the Celtics. Interested in ending his playing career in order to coach, only Red Auerbach convinced Barrett to return for the 1955-56 season. The introduction of the 24-second shot clock sped up the game, which Auerbach thought may suit Barrett’s style of play. While Barrett is shown here wearing No. 19, he switched to No. 23 after Arnie Risen signed with the Celtics in October 1955 and took that number.