Tatum’s bold statement during C’s ring ceremony was not planned originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
BOSTON — During the offseason, the Celtics preached the importance of not skipping steps in their quest to repeat as champions.
So, we can only imagine Joe Mazzulla’s dismay when star player Jayson Tatum grabbed the microphone to address the TD Garden crowd after a while. the celtics received their 2024 championship rings Tuesday night.
“I can honestly say, to the best fans in the world — let’s do it again,” Tatum said, sending the home fans into a frenzy.
It was a goosebump moment — but one that Tatum didn’t exactly intend. After the game, he admitted that publicly declaring his team’s intentions to repeat was not on his agenda.
“I planned to say something, but I got caught up in the moment. I was overwhelmed,” said Tatum. “I was like in fear and emotions got the best of me.
“I know we’re not supposed to talk about a repeat, but the fans were so excited, so like, f— it, let’s do it again.”
Given the atmosphere, it’s hard to blame Tatum for getting caught up in the moment. Celtic legends of past and present (including 96-year-old Bob Cousy) attended the raising of Banner 18, and Tuesday’s ceremony was the final chance for Tatum to enjoy the achievement he had desperately sought in his previous seven seasons.
“It’s just something I’ve been dreaming about for a very, very long time. A moment I’ve been looking forward to since I got to the league,” Tatum said.
“I was very, very close to winning a championship and fell short. So to finally get over that hump and finally be a part of an opening night ring ceremony — something I’ve watched every year since I was a kid — it was just a wild moment I’m a part of history and was worth the wait.”
If Tatum was caught in the moment pregame, he immediately turned on the switch at tip. The five-time All-Star went a blistering 8 for 11 from 3-point range to finish with 37 points, four rebounds and 10 assists in The 132-109 failure of Boston by the New York Knicks.
The blowout win was a reminder of why the Celtics are the 2025 title favorites and seems well equipped to become the first team since the 2018 Golden State Warriors repeat like champions. And while Tatum may have gone a little over his skis before Tuesday’s game, it looks like he’s ready to work his way back to the top of the NBA mountain.
“After tonight, we have to put it behind us,” Tatum added. “We have to have the same approach as last year, and you just try to get better every day. … We’re not looking to June; we’re looking forward to Thursday, and that’s our mindset.”
The Celtics visit the Washington Wizards on Thursday, with coverage beginning at 6 PM ET on NBC Sports Boston with Celtics Pregame Live and information at 7 p.m
