Al Horford wins NBA title with Celtics in 186th playoff game
Al Horford, center for the Boston Celtics, has finally won his first NBA title in his 186th playoff game
Al Horford, center for the Boston Celtics, has finally won his first NBA title in his 186th playoff game, a record in league history. In Game 5 of the NBA Finals, Horford contributed 9 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals in the Celtics’ 106-88 victory over the Dallas Mavericks, securing Boston’s 18th NBA championship.
Horford, who has played for the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Boston Celtics during his career, recalled the words of former Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge during his first free agency meeting: “You can win championships in many places, but there’s nothing like winning in Boston. Nothing like winning as a Celtic.”
His teammate, Finals MVP Jaylen Brown, said, “Nobody deserved it more than Al. He’s been a great leader not just on the court but off the court as well. He’s a real-life hero.”
Horford celebrated the title with his daughter in his arms and a Dominican flag, becoming the first Dominican-born player to win an NBA championship. Under contract with Boston for next season, Horford expressed his desire to continue playing as long as he feels healthy and supported by his family. “I’ve never really put a timeframe on it,” Horford told ESPN. “I want to make sure that I feel healthy and that I’m enjoying what I’m doing. For now, I feel good, and I want to keep playing. Why stop?”