Ultimate Standings 2009: No. 20
Boston Celtics
Last Year's Rank: 43
Title Track: 12
Ownership: 17
Coaching: 34
Players: 17
Fan Relations: 26
Affordability: 75
Stadium Experience: 65
Bang for the Buck: 33
The real glory behind Boston's 23-place overall gain belongs to captain (and last June's Finals MVP) Paul Pierce, who helped bring a hoops title back to Boston for the first time since 1986. That it happened while beating the archrival Lakers and MVP Kobe was the cherry on top. Meanwhile, a key member of that '86 squad, player-turned-GM Danny Ainge, deserves some credit for helping to orchestrate his third ring as a Celtic, thanks to his savvy roster makeover. Speaking of makeovers, the Celts have a community version that gets rave reviews: RE/MAX of New England Home Court Program awards three lucky New England-area fans a home-driveway renovation (including a basketball court and electronic scoreboard) and a bedroom redecoration (Celts-themed, of course). One of last year's winners also got to meet Cedric Maxwell and Eddie House. Problem is, experiencing all this green requires serious green. The NBA's third-highest tix ($68.55) and second-priciest parking ($26) added up to a 10.6% jump in cost. The good news: The team is keeping season-ticket prices flat for 2009-10 and introducing a 12-month interest-free payment plan, which started with 2009 playoff tickets. Even better news: KG is expected back at the start of next season.
