When you look back at the sweeping history of the NBA, one team rises above the rest: the Boston Celtics.
With 18 championships, the Celtics have carved their name into the heart of basketball’s legacy.
From the Bill Russell dynasty of the 1950s and 60s to the modern revival of green glory, Boston’s banner count remains unmatched.
Close behind stand the Los Angeles Lakers, crowned 17 times.
Together, the Celtics and Lakers have defined the very essence of the NBA Finals, creating the greatest rivalry in basketball and setting the standard for excellence across generations.
Golden State Warriors have surged in recent years, climbing to third with seven titles, thanks in large part to the Stephen Curry era that reshaped the game.
The Chicago Bulls, led by Michael Jordan in the 1990s, secured six championships that turned basketball into a global phenomenon.
The San Antonio Spurs, with five titles under Gregg Popovich, became the model of consistency and teamwork.
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List of NBA champions
| Rank | Franchise | NBA Championships |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Boston Celtics | 18 |
| 2 | Los Angeles Lakers (incl. Minneapolis Lakers) | 17 |
| 3 | Golden State Warriors | 7 |
| 4 | Chicago Bulls | 6 |
| 5 | San Antonio Spurs | 5 |
| 6 | Detroit Pistons | 3 |
| 6 | Miami Heat | 3 |
| 8 | Philadelphia 76ers | 3 |
| 9 | Milwaukee Bucks | 2 |
| 10 | New York Knicks | 2 |
| 10 | Houston Rockets | 2 |
These numbers, however, are more than just statistics. Each title represents stories of dynasties, heartbreak, and triumphs that transcended sport.
Bill Russell’s 11 rings symbolize dominance; Michael Jordan’s six titles embody perfection on the biggest stage; Stephen Curry’s run reflects a modern revolution in basketball.
In the end, championships are a mirror of legacy.
They measure greatness, resilience, and eras that shaped not only the league but also the culture of the game itself.
