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BOSTON — As the Celtics soared to their historic 18th NBA Championship, Al Horford, the beloved veteran and "OG" of the Celtics locker room, became a central figure in the team's narrative. While fans rallied behind the sentiment of "let’s win it for Al," Horford remained focused on the collective goal, emphasizing the importance of the team over individual accolades.
In his 17th season, Horford had played the most playoff games without a championship among active players. Yet, his humility shone through as he continuously highlighted that winning a title transcends personal glory. When the Celtics finally claimed the NBA Finals victory, Horford’s teammates didn't hold back their admiration for the seasoned veteran.
“Once I became his teammate, it was one of the ultimate goals of this season,” Jrue Holiday shared. “Knowing the type of person Al is, the leader he is, even off the court—the father he is, just the all-around great person and human—I’d run through a brick wall for him. I’m so happy that he got one.”
Celebrations erupted as Horford and the Celtics secured their championship. Having endured numerous playoff heartbreaks, Horford was now ready to don a ring, just like the one he had seen on Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck’s hand during a 2016 free agency pitch.
“Nobody deserved it more than Al. He’s been a great leader not just on the court but off the court as well,” Jaylen Brown said. “Just a mentor. Somebody I know I can talk to about life who gives great advice about family, finances, adversity, whatever the case is. Al has just been that guy for me and for us.”
Horford also recalled advice from former Boston president Danny Ainge, who once told him, “You can win championships in many places, but there’s nothing like winning in Boston. Nothing like winning as a Celtic.” This sentiment resonated deeply with Horford and influenced his decision to join the Celtics.
“I’m so grateful,” Horford reflected. “I know I’ve said it before, but it’s glory to the Lord for putting me in this position. It’s been a lot of years. I don’t think it’s sunk in yet. I’m going through the emotions right now, but I don’t feel like it’s over. This is an unbelievable feeling. Yeah, the confetti, everything is going on, but it just hasn’t hit me yet.”
Join us in celebrating Al Horford and the Boston Celtics as they revel in their hard-earned triumph. Source: Masslive.com