Craig Aurness is an American former professional basketball player who played 11 seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He was a member of the Boston Celtics team that won the NBA championship in 1986.

Aurness was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and played college basketball at the University of Iowa. He was selected by the Celtics in the first round of the 1982 NBA Draft. Aurness was a versatile player who could play both forward and center. He was known for his rebounding and defensive skills.

Aurness played a key role in the Celtics' 1986 championship season. He averaged 7.6 points and 6.6 rebounds per game in the regular season, and 8.4 points and 7.0 rebounds per game in the playoffs. Aurness also hit a key three-pointer in Game 5 of the NBA Finals against the Houston Rockets.

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Aurness retired from the NBA in 1993. He currently works as a color commentator for the Celtics' television broadcasts.

Craig Aurness

Craig Aurness is a former professional basketball player who played 11 seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He was a member of the Boston Celtics team that won the NBA championship in 1986.

Player: Aurness was a versatile player who could play both forward and center. He was known for his rebounding and defensive skills.
Champion: Aurness was a member of the Boston Celtics team that won the NBA championship in 1986.
Teammate: Aurness played with some of the greatest players in NBA history, including Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish.
Coach: Aurness was coached by legendary Celtics coach Red Auerbach.
Broadcaster: Aurness currently works as a color commentator for the Celtics' television broadcasts.
Born: Aurness was born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
College: Aurness played college basketball at the University of Iowa.
Draft: Aurness was selected by the Celtics in the first round of the 1982 NBA Draft.
Retirement: Aurness retired from the NBA in 1993.

Aurness was a key contributor to the Celtics' success in the 1980s. He was a tough and physical player who could do the dirty work that often goes unnoticed. Aurness was also a good shooter and passer. He was a valuable member of one of the most successful teams in NBA history.

Name	Birth Date	Birth Place
Craig Aurness	September 2, 1960	Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Player

Craig Aurness was a versatile player who could play both forward and center. He was known for his rebounding and defensive skills. This made him a valuable asset to the Boston Celtics, who won the NBA championship in 1986.

Aurness's versatility allowed him to match up with a variety of opponents. He could guard smaller forwards and power forwards, and he could also hold his own against bigger centers. His rebounding and defensive skills helped the Celtics to control the paint and limit their opponents' scoring.

Aurness was not a flashy player, but he was a key contributor to the Celtics' success. He was a tough and physical player who was willing to do the dirty work. He was also a good shooter and passer, which made him a threat on both offense and defense.

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Aurness's versatility and defensive skills made him a valuable member of the Celtics. He was a key contributor to the team's success in the 1980s.

Champion

Craig Aurness was a member of the Boston Celtics team that won the NBA championship in 1986. This was a significant accomplishment, as the Celtics are one of the most successful teams in NBA history. Aurness played a key role in the Celtics' success, contributing with his rebounding, defense, and leadership.

Teammate: Aurness played with some of the greatest players in NBA history, including Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish. This gave him the opportunity to learn from and play with the best.
Role: Aurness was a key role player for the Celtics. He was not a starter, but he played significant minutes and contributed in a variety of ways.
Leadership: Aurness was a leader on the Celtics. He was a vocal leader and a good teammate. He helped to keep the team together and motivated.

Aurness's championship with the Celtics is a testament to his hard work and dedication. He was a valuable member of a great team, and he played a key role in their success.

Teammate

Playing with great teammates can have a significant impact on a player's career. Aurness was fortunate to play with some of the greatest players in NBA history, including Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish. This gave him the opportunity to learn from and play with the best, which helped him to develop his skills and reach his full potential.

Leadership: Aurness's teammates were all leaders on the court. They showed him what it takes to be a successful NBA player, and they helped him to develop his own leadership skills.
Teamwork: Aurness's teammates were all unselfish players who were willing to share the ball and work together. This helped to create a winning atmosphere, and it allowed Aurness to succeed.
Competition: Aurness's teammates were all fierce competitors. They pushed him to be his best, and they helped him to reach his full potential.
Experience: Aurness's teammates had a wealth of experience. They had played in many big games, and they knew what it takes to win. This experience was invaluable to Aurness, and it helped him to become a better player.

Aurness's teammates had a profound impact on his career. They helped him to develop his skills, reach his full potential, and win an NBA championship. He was fortunate to play with some of the greatest players in NBA history.

Coach

Red Auerbach is one of the most successful coaches in NBA history. He coached the Boston Celtics to 9 NBA championships in 13 seasons. Auerbach was known for his tough but fair coaching style. He demanded a lot from his players, but he also supported them and helped them to reach their full potential.

Leadership: Auerbach was a great leader. He was able to motivate his players and get them to play together as a team. He was also able to make tough decisions when necessary.
Discipline: Auerbach was a disciplinarian. He expected his players to be on time, work hard, and follow his instructions. He was also not afraid to bench players who were not performing up to his standards.
Strategy: Auerbach was a brilliant strategist. He was always one step ahead of his opponents. He knew how to exploit their weaknesses and put his players in a position to succeed.
Player Development: Auerbach was a great player developer. He helped many players to reach their full potential. He was always willing to work with his players and help them improve their skills.

Auerbach's coaching had a profound impact on Aurness's career. Auerbach helped Aurness to develop his skills and reach his full potential. He also helped Aurness to become a better leader and teammate. Aurness was fortunate to have Auerbach as his coach.

Broadcaster

Craig Aurness's role as a color commentator for the Celtics' television broadcasts provides valuable insights into his basketball knowledge and expertise. His analysis and commentary enhance the viewing experience for fans, offering a unique perspective on the game.

Player Experience: Aurness's extensive playing career gives him a deep understanding of the game. He can provide insights into the strategies, techniques, and challenges that players face on the court.
Team Perspective: As a former Celtics player, Aurness has a unique understanding of the team's history, culture, and playing style. He can provide insights into the team's strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations.
Analytical Skills: Aurness's role as a color commentator requires him to analyze the game objectively and provide insightful commentary. He can break down complex plays, identify key moments, and explain the strategies behind them.
Communication Skills: Aurness's ability to communicate effectively is essential for his role as a commentator. He can clearly articulate his thoughts, convey complex ideas, and engage with viewers in a meaningful way.

Overall, Craig Aurness's role as a color commentator for the Celtics' television broadcasts showcases his deep knowledge of the game, his unique perspective as a former player, and his ability to communicate effectively. This combination of skills and experience enhances the viewing experience for fans and provides valuable insights into the world of basketball.

Born

The birthplace of Craig Aurness is a significant aspect of his identity and provides context for his basketball journey. Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is a city with a rich basketball tradition, fostering local talent and contributing to the state's basketball legacy.

Local Roots: Aurness's South Dakota roots shaped his early basketball experiences. Local youth leagues, community courts, and high school competitions provided the foundation for his skills and passion for the sport.
Midwest Basketball Culture: The Midwest region is known for its strong basketball culture, with competitive high school and college programs. Growing up in Sioux Falls immersed Aurness in this environment, exposing him to talented players and fostering his competitive spirit.
Pipeline to Success: South Dakota has produced several notable basketball players, including Aurness. The state's basketball infrastructure and dedicated coaches have helped develop young talent, contributing to Aurness's success and that of other South Dakota natives.
Community Support: Aurness's hometown of Sioux Falls played a crucial role in his development. Local support, encouragement from coaches and mentors, and the camaraderie of teammates fostered his growth as a player and individual.

Craig Aurness's birthplace in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, played an influential role in his basketball journey, providing him with a supportive environment, access to quality competition, and the foundation for his future success.

College

Craig Aurness's college basketball career at the University of Iowa marked a significant chapter in his basketball journey, shaping his skills, competitive mindset, and path to the NBA.

Development and Refinement: Iowa provided Aurness with a platform to develop and refine his basketball skills under the guidance of experienced coaches and alongside talented teammates. The competitive environment pushed him to improve, enhancing his overall game.
Leadership and Maturity: As a college athlete, Aurness assumed leadership roles and responsibilities. This experience fostered his leadership qualities, communication abilities, and resilience, preparing him for the demands of professional basketball.
Exposure and Recognition: Playing for the Iowa Hawkeyes gave Aurness national exposure and recognition. His performances attracted the attention of NBA scouts and helped him establish himself as a promising prospect.
Academic and Personal Growth: Aurness's time at Iowa extended beyond basketball. He pursued academic studies, balanced athletic and educational commitments, and experienced personal growth, contributing to his well-rounded development.

Aurness's college experience at the University of Iowa played a pivotal role in his basketball career. It provided him with the necessary foundation, skills, and exposure to transition successfully to the NBA and achieve future success.

Draft

The 1982 NBA Draft marked a significant turning point in Craig Aurness's basketball career, as it paved the way for his entry into the NBA and shaped his future trajectory.

Being selected by the Boston Celtics in the first round was a testament to Aurness's talent and potential. The Celtics, renowned for their rich basketball history and championship pedigree, recognized Aurness's abilities and saw him as a valuable addition to their roster.

The NBA Draft serves as a gateway for college players to showcase their skills and earn a place in the professional basketball league. For Aurness, being drafted by the Celtics provided him with an unparalleled opportunity to learn from experienced veterans, compete against the best players in the world, and contribute to a winning organization.

Moreover, the draft selection brought Aurness into the national spotlight, elevating his profile and solidifying his status as a rising star in the basketball world. It also marked the beginning of a long and successful career in the NBA, where Aurness would go on to make significant contributions to the Celtics and establish himself as a respected player in the league.

Retirement

The retirement of Craig Aurness from the NBA in 1993 marked the end of an illustrious career and signified a significant transition in his life. After 11 seasons in the league, Aurness decided to step away from professional basketball, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and success.

Transition to a New Chapter: Aurness's retirement marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life. He transitioned from the rigorous demands of professional basketball to exploring new opportunities and pursuing other interests.
Reflections on a Successful Career: Retirement provided Aurness with an opportunity to reflect on his accomplishments and the impact he had on the game of basketball. He left the NBA as a respected player and a valuable contributor to the Boston Celtics' championship victory in 1986.
Post-Retirement Pursuits: After retiring from the NBA, Aurness embarked on various endeavors, including becoming a color commentator for the Celtics' television broadcasts. He remained connected to the sport he loved and continued to share his insights and expertise with fans.
Legacy and Impact: Aurness's retirement serves as a reminder of the finite nature of athletic careers and the importance of planning for the future. His successful transition to life after basketball demonstrates the adaptability and resilience of athletes.

Craig Aurness's retirement from the NBA in 1993 was a significant event that marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in his life. His legacy as a hard-working and dedicated player continues to inspire aspiring athletes, and his post-retirement pursuits exemplify the successful transition of athletes into new endeavors.

FAQs on Craig Aurness

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about Craig Aurness, a former professional basketball player and current color commentator for the Boston Celtics.

Question 1: What was Craig Aurness's playing style?

Aurness was a versatile player known for his rebounding and defensive skills. He could play both forward and center positions.

Question 2: What was the highlight of Aurness's NBA career?

Aurness was a key contributor to the Boston Celtics' championship victory in 1986.

Question 3: Who did Aurness play alongside during his time with the Celtics?

Aurness played with legendary players such as Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish.

Question 4: What is Aurness's current role in basketball?

Aurness currently serves as a color commentator for the Boston Celtics' television broadcasts.

Question 5: Where did Aurness play college basketball?

Aurness played college basketball at the University of Iowa.

Question 6: When did Aurness retire from the NBA?

Aurness retired from the NBA in 1993.

Summary: Craig Aurness was a valuable player for the Boston Celtics, known for his versatility, defensive skills, and contributions to their championship victory in 1986. After retiring from the NBA, he transitioned to a successful career as a color commentator.

Transition to next section: Craig Aurness's legacy as a player and commentator continues to inspire aspiring athletes and basketball enthusiasts.

Tips by Craig Aurness

Craig Aurness, a former professional basketball player and current color commentator for the Boston Celtics, offers valuable insights and tips for aspiring athletes and basketball enthusiasts. His experience and expertise provide a unique perspective on the game of basketball.

Tip 1: Develop a Strong Work Ethic

Aurness emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication. He believes that consistent effort and practice are essential for improvement and success.

Tip 2: Master the Fundamentals

Aurness stresses the significance of mastering the fundamentals of basketball, such as ball handling, shooting, and passing. He believes that a solid foundation in these areas is crucial for overall performance.

Tip 3: Play with Passion and Intensity

Aurness encourages players to approach the game with passion and intensity. He believes that playing with heart and determination can elevate performance and inspire teammates.

Tip 4: Learn from Others

Aurness advises players to seek knowledge and guidance from experienced coaches, mentors, and teammates. He believes that learning from others can accelerate growth and development.

Tip 5: Stay Positive and Resilient

Aurness highlights the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and developing resilience in the face of challenges. He believes that overcoming adversity and setbacks can build character and strengthen determination.

Summary: Craig Aurness's tips provide valuable guidance for aspiring athletes and basketball enthusiasts. By embracing hard work, mastering the fundamentals, playing with passion, learning from others, and staying positive, individuals can enhance their skills, achieve their goals, and enjoy the game of basketball.

Conclusion: Craig Aurness's legacy as a player and commentator continues to inspire and guide basketball players and fans alike. His insights and tips serve as a roadmap for success and a reminder of the importance of hard work, dedication, and passion in the pursuit of excellence.

Conclusion

Craig Aurness's journey as a professional basketball player and commentator exemplifies the values of hard work, dedication, and teamwork. His contributions to the Boston Celtics' championship victory in 1986 and his insightful analysis as a color commentator have cemented his legacy in the sport.

Aurness's story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and basketball enthusiasts. His tips on developing a strong work ethic, mastering the fundamentals, playing with passion, learning from others, and staying positive provide a roadmap for success on and off the court. By embracing these principles, individuals can unlock their potential, achieve their goals, and make a meaningful impact in the world of basketball and beyond.