Bill Russell, Bob Cousy ignite Celtics dynasty in 1957 NBA Finals, Game 7

The championship would serve as the beginning of a Celtics dynasty that would win 11 championships in 13 seasons. Coach Red Auerbach would lead Boston to nine of those titles, including eight in a row from 1958-66.RANK: 89 LOCATION: Boston Garden | Boston, Mass. DATE: 4/13/1957 CATEGORY: NBA

Staring a 101-102 deficit in the face, St. Louis’s Bob Cousy had the chance to clinch the NBA title at the free throw line. Instead, he hit one of two, sending it to overtime. In the waning moments of double overtime, the Celtics held a 125-123 lead, and were able to stop the Hawks from scoring, securing the first championship in franchise history.