The 2010-11 Boston Celtics enjoyed a strong season, finishing first in the Atlantic Division and third in the Eastern Conference with a 56-26 record. Led by the "Big Four" of Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, and Rajon Rondo, the team boasted the league's top-rated defense and showcased their championship pedigree by sweeping the New York Knicks in the first round of the playoffs. Despite facing mid-season roster changes and injuries, the Celtics remained a premier contender and advanced to the Eastern Conference Semifinals, highlighting a season of continued excellence under coach Doc Rivers. The 10th overall pick in the 1998 NBA Draft, Paul "The Truth" Pierce became a Hall of Fame forward and Boston Celtics legend who earned 10 All-Star selections and led the franchise to the 2008 NBA Championship as the Finals MVP.