Robert Parish, known as "The Chief," is one of the most iconic figures in NBA history, particularly for his time with the Boston Celtics. Standing at 7'1", Parish was a dominant center who played in the NBA for an incredible 21 seasons, from 1976 to 1997. His career spanned four teams, but he is best remembered for his 14-year tenure with the Celtics, where he formed a legendary frontcourt alongside Larry Bird and Kevin McHale. Together, this trio, often referred to as the "Big Three," led the Celtics to three NBA championships in the 1980s, solidifying their place in basketball history.

Parish's journey to the NBA began at Centenary College, where he posted impressive numbers that caught the attention of both ABA and NBA scouts. He was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 1976, where he played for four seasons before being traded to the Celtics in 1980. This trade proved to be a pivotal moment in his career, as it paired him with McHale and Bird, creating one of the most formidable front lines the league had ever seen. Parish's defensive prowess, rebounding ability, and signature high-arching jump shot made him a key contributor to the Celtics' success during the 1980s.

In addition to his time with the Celtics, Parish also played for the Charlotte Hornets and the Chicago Bulls, where he won his fourth NBA championship in 1997 at the age of 43. His longevity in the league is unmatched, as he holds the NBA record for most games played, with 1,611 appearances. Parish's durability and consistency over two decades earned him nine NBA All-Star selections and a place on both the NBA's 50th and 75th anniversary teams. His contributions to the game were further recognized when the Celtics retired his jersey in 1998, and he was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003.

Parish's legacy is not only defined by his championships and individual accolades but also by his leadership and professionalism on and off the court. His ability to maintain a high level of play for over two decades is a testament to his work ethic and dedication to the game. Today, Parish is remembered as one of the greatest centers in NBA history, and his impact on the sport continues to be felt by players and fans alike.

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