Cedric Maxwell Speaking Fee: $10,000 and Below

Cedric Maxwell, affectionately known as “Cornbread” or “Max,” is a two-time NBA champion and former Boston Celtics star whose impact on basketball and the Boston community endures decades after his playing days. Born on November 21, 1955, in Kinston, North Carolina, Maxwell’s journey to the NBA was anything but conventional. He didn’t make his high school basketball team until his senior year, but his perseverance paid off when he earned a scholarship to play at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte). There, he led the 49ers to the 1977 NCAA Final Four and was named MVP of the 1977 NCAA Mideast Region. Maxwell finished his college career with over 1,800 points and a still-standing school record of 1,117 career rebounds. In 1977, Maxwell was selected by the Boston Celtics as the 12th overall pick in the NBA Draft. He played eight of his eleven NBA seasons with the Celtics, contributing to their championship victories in 1981 and 1984. Maxwell was named the 1981 NBA Finals MVP, a testament to his pivotal role in the team’s success. His number 31 jersey was retired by the Celtics in 2003, solidifying his legacy in Boston basketball history. After retiring from professional basketball, Maxwell transitioned into a career in broadcasting. Since 2001, he has served as a radio analyst for the Boston Celtics on WBZ-FM, partnering with play-by-play announcer Sean Grande. Together, they have become a beloved duo known as “Grande and Max.” Maxwell has also co-hosted various sports talk radio shows, including “Celtics Summer Cooler,” providing fans with insightful commentary and analysis. Beyond his work in broadcasting, Maxwell is a sought-after speaker, sharing his experiences and insights on leadership, teamwork, and perseverance with audiences across the country. His journey from a late-blooming high school athlete to an NBA champion and respected broadcaster serves as an inspiring example of determination and resilience.