The number “23” has hung from the rafters of the Boston Garden since Oct. 16, 1965 in honor of the Celtics’ original sixth-man Frank Ramsey, who passed away a month ago today at the age of 86.
The ambitious and entrepreneurial Kentucky Gentleman won an NCAA championship for the legendary Adolph Rupp, then seven pro titles in a nine-year Celtic career. Never the most-touted player on any of his squads – teammate Cliff Hagan was a consensus 1st-team All-American, Ramsey 2nd- or 3rd-team during their Wildcat days – ol’ Frank was plenty good enough at enough things to earn induction to the Naismith Hall of Fame with the class of 1982.