Is Paul Pierce or John Hannah a Bigger Boston Sports Legend?

Paul Pierce squares off against John Hannah in the first round of Boston’s Biggest Sports Legend tournament.

7. Paul PierceWhen Shaquille O’Neal gives you the nickname “The Truth,” chances are you’re pretty good. Paul Pierce has lived up to that name in his 12 seasons in Boston. A native of L.A., Pierce embraced the Celtics and their rich history and made sure that he would make his mark on basketball’s most successful franchise. Pierce has been the most durable and dedicated member of the Celtics, averaging almost 80 games per season in 10 of the last 11 seasons. He once hit the game-winning shot over the Blazers after having spent seven hours repairing teeth he had lost in a game the night before. He also recovered from 11 stab wounds in Sept. of 2000 to play all 82 games that season. He’ll be remembered largely for helping raise the 17th championship banner. His legacy will certainly live on when he retires, and his No. 34 is destined for the rafters.

10. John HannahIn one of the most thankless jobs in professional sports, John Hannah became one of the best offensive linemen in the history of the NFL. How’s this for a resume? Nine Pro Bowls, 10 All-Pro Selections, two-time collegiate All-American, NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team and NFL All-Decade Team for both the 1980s and 1970s. His No. 73 is one of just seven to be retired by the Patriots, with whom Hannah spent his entire 13-year career. He played in 13 or more games in all but two seasons, totaling 183 games played in his career. He was ranked at No. 20 on The Sporting News’ list of the 100 Greatest Football Players and is one of just two Hall of Famers to spend his entire career in New England.

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