Eight months later, the Celtics marked the franchise’s 18th victory with a traditional Boston duck boat parade, accompanied by a large crowd. The Celtics started the season with a strong determination to turn previous playoff disappointments into victories.
Boston’s Iconic Celebration
In Boston, duck boats are often associated with championship celebrations. The Celtics, Patriots, Red Sox, and Bruins have all celebrated their wins with these amphibious vehicles, commonly used by sightseers. The 13th championship this century for Boston Celtics sports teams in the four major U.S. leagues was celebrated during Friday’s duck boat parade.
The Parade Route
The parade, which lasted 90 minutes, began at TD Garden and weaved its way through the streets of Boston, passing City Hall, Boston Common, Boylston Street, and eventually finishing at Hynes Convention Center. Fans cheered for the Celtics as they surpassed the Los Angeles Lakers to become the team with the most titles in league history.
Unforgettable Moments
During a pre-parade rally, All-Star Jayson Tatum voiced his disbelief, stating, “It still feels unreal.” Just attempting to remain present. Wyc Grousbeck, owner of the Celtics, walked half a mile to the arena with the Larry O’Brien Trophy and the 2024 championship banner, as fans cheered him on.
Community Celebration
In the Garden, players, family, Celtics staff, and guests like Gov. Maura Healey and Mayor Michelle Wu celebrated alongside each other. After celebrating in the locker room and at a private party in Miami, the team extended the joy to fans.
Fans and Unity
Coach Joe Mazzulla walked through Boston’s North End with the trophy, giving fans the opportunity to see and touch it. “I was able to touch the trophy,” said Jason Hawkins, a fan who traveled from Ohio for the parade. The Celtics, famous for ending huddles with the word “Together,” highlighted their emphasis on unity and putting the team first.
Looking Ahead
The day marked the end of Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum’s journey, which included four conference finals. One NBA Finals before claiming victory in the championship. Having all five starting players signed for next season puts the Celtics in a good position to defend their championship and could make them the NBA’s first back-to-back champions since the Warriors in 2018.
While reserve Luke Kornet counted championships from one to 18 with fans. The clear message was for Boston to keep the duck boats prepared.
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