Mazzulla sums up the mindset of C as reigning champions with an incredible quote originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
As the reigning NBA champions, the Boston Celtics can expect their opponents to give their best effort against them during the 2024-25 season. Joe Mazzulla is looking forward to the challenge.
on wednesday Locked On Celtics a podcastMazzulla shared his thoughts on Boston being a “target” during its pursuit of back-to-back titles.
“People will say the target is on our back, but I hope it is right on our forehead between our eyes. I hope I can see the red dot,” he said (3:00 mark of video below).
It’s a trademark comment from the mercurial head coach, who has had a knack for witty one-liners since winning the role in 2022.
Mazzulla and the C’s are favored to win it all again in 2025. That’s no surprise since they’re poised to make it back with a roster nearly identical to their 2024 championship squad. Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, and Kristaps Porzingis (when he returns from injury) will once again lead the way.
The Celtics finished the 2023–24 campaign with a 64–18 record that gave them home court advantage throughout the playoffs. They defeated the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, Indiana Pacers, and Dallas Mavericks en route to Banner 18.
Boston will return to the court when training camp begins on September 25th. Its first two preseason games will take place in Abu Dhabi against the Denver Nuggets on October 4 and October 6.
The C’s title defense begins Oct. 22 against the New York Knicks at TD Garden. The 2018 Golden State Warriors are the last team to repeat as NBA champions.
