In their third preseason game, the Boston Celtics showcased their dominance with a staggering 139-89 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. Led by Jaylen Brown’s impressive 18-point performance, the reigning NBA champions sent a clear message: they are ready to defend their title. Yet, it wasn’t just the scoreline that captured attention. Brown’s post-game comments about his favorite arena, outside of Boston’s TD Garden, sparked discussion—and even controversy—among fans.
After the Celtics’ commanding win, team reporter Daniel Donabedian shared a post on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting Brown’s surprising remarks. Brown, one of the league’s premier stars and the 2024 NBA Finals MVP, admitted that Madison Square Garden in New York City is his favorite arena to play in, aside from his home court in Boston. Donabedian posted a picture of Brown with the caption, “Jaylen Brown said that New York is his favorite place to play at outside of TD Garden.”
Jaylen Brown said that New York is his favorite place to play at outside of TD Garden 🗽 pic.twitter.com/IKLd6dJSn8
— Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) October 13, 2024
While Brown’s appreciation for Madison Square Garden might seem harmless to some, the statement raised eyebrows among loyal Celtics fans. The storied rivalry between the Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks is one of the NBA’s oldest and most heated. For some Celtics supporters, praising the Knicks’ home arena felt like a betrayal, particularly coming from one of the franchise’s biggest stars.
Jaylen Brown’s performance fondness for the Knicks’ home court isn’t unprecedented. Madison Square Garden has long been regarded as one of basketball’s most iconic venues, with a rich history of hosting some of the sport’s most memorable moments. The Knicks’ last championship victory, in 1970, took place at the Garden, and the venue has been the stage for countless unforgettable performances from NBA legends.
Pelicans star Zion Williamson previously described Madison Square Garden as the “Mecca” of basketball, adding, “Whether they are cheering for you or booing for you, it’s amazing.” Brown’s sentiment echoes similar feelings shared by many other players who view the Garden as a hallowed ground for the game.
Despite the Knicks’ well-documented struggles in recent years, Madison Square Garden has retained its prestige. The arena’s unique atmosphere—packed with passionate fans, whether supportive or critical—makes it a special place for NBA players, regardless of the team they represent. And while some Celtics fans may bristle at the idea, Brown’s praise for the venue seems to stem more from respect for the sport’s history than any deep affection for the Knicks themselves.
Beyond his love for the Garden, Jaylen Brown made other headlines after the blowout win over the 76ers. In a post-game interview, Brown voiced frustration over being left off the All-Defensive team last season. Known primarily for his offensive prowess, Brown feels his defensive contributions have been overlooked, particularly in a league that tends to celebrate offensive firepower.
“I feel like I should have been [on the All-Defensive team] last season,” Brown said. “I took every defensive matchup all season long. I guarded the best player on every team, picked up full-court whether it was point guards, centers, or whatever. But people don’t pay attention to that intricate defense. People only care about offense.”
Jaylen Brown was asked about his All-Defensive aspirations:
“I said that last season, not this season, and I felt like I should have [been on an All-Defensive team] last season… But this people don’t pay attention that intricate to defense. People only care about offense.” pic.twitter.com/ShsH2lVNAE
— Justin Turpin (@JustinmTurpin) October 13, 2024
Brown’s defensive numbers last season, though not eye-popping, were solid, averaging 0.5 blocks and 1.2 steals per game. For a player tasked with shouldering a significant offensive load, his ability to lock down opponents often flies under the radar. This sentiment resonates with many in the NBA community, who argue that the league’s All-Defensive selections often favor players with flashy defensive stats rather than those who put in the gritty work of guarding the opposition’s best players night in and night out.
Jaylen Brown’s comments reveal a player driven to be recognized as one of the league’s elite defenders, not just an offensive star. His frustration is understandable—playing for a team stacked with defensive talent, like the Celtics, can sometimes overshadow individual achievements. With teammates like Marcus Smart and Jayson Tatum also known for their defensive abilities, it’s easy for Brown’s contributions on that end to go unnoticed.
It’s a common narrative in the NBA that offense grabs the headlines while defense quietly wins games. Brown’s determination to earn recognition as an All-Defensive player highlights the ongoing struggle for two-way stars to gain equal attention for their defensive work. His comments come at a pivotal moment in his career, as he seeks to cement himself as one of the league’s most complete players.
But even if Jaylen Brown’s performance and defensive efforts continue to fly under the radar, his value to the Celtics cannot be understated. With the team’s championship aspirations renewed, Brown’s leadership and versatility—on both ends of the floor—will be key to their success. Whether or not he secures the elusive All-Defensive nod, his drive to excel on defense is a crucial part of Boston’s winning formula.
As the Boston Celtics prepare for another season, expectations are sky-high. The team’s offseason moves, including the retention of key players and the strengthening of their roster, have positioned them as one of the favorites to repeat as champions. For Jaylen Brown, this season also represents an opportunity for individual growth. With his sights set on All-Defensive recognition and another title run, Brown’s determination is clear.
Ultimately, Brown’s post-game comments serve as a reminder that even amid the glitz and glamour of NBA stardom, players like him are focused on more than just scoring points—they are chasing greatness in every aspect of their game. Whether it’s his love for Madison Square Garden or his quest to be known as a defensive force, Brown’s passion for basketball is undeniable.
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