A territorial pick was a type of special draft choice used in the Basketball Association of America (BAA) draft in 1949 and in the National Basketball Association (NBA) draft after the 1950 season, the year in which the BAA was renamed the NBA. In the draft, NBA teams took turns selecting amateur U.S. college basketball players. Territorial picks were eliminated when the draft system was revamped in 1966.
Wilt Chamberlain was selected as the Philadelphia Warriors' territorial pick in 1959.
Tom Heinsohn was selected as the Boston Celtics' territorial pick in 1956.
Guy Rodgers was selected as the Philadelphia Warriors' territorial pick in 1958.
Bill Bradley was selected as the New York Knicks' territorial pick in 1965.
Thomas William Heinsohn was an American professional basketball player, coach, and broadcaster. He was associated with the Boston Celtics of the National Basketball Association (NBA) for six decades as a player, coach and broadcaster. He played for the Celtics from 1956 to 1965, and also coached the team from 1969 to 1978. He spent over 30 years as the color commentator for the Celtics' local broadcasts alongside play-by-play commentator Mike Gorman. He is regarded as one of the most iconic Celtics figures in the franchise's history, known during his lifetime for his charisma and loyalty to the team and its traditions. From this, he earned the nickname "Mr. Celtic".
Heinsohn in 1970
Heinsohn during a game against the Philadelphia Warriors, circa 1962
Heinsohn as Celtics' head coach in 1975
Heinsohn at the 2008 Celtics championship parade
