The White House celebrated the historic 18th NBA championship of the Boston Celtics on Thursday with a festive celebration attended by President Joe Biden. The show marked on the South Lawn was particularly colored by a festive spirit since the lights illuminated the White House in green, symbolizing the Celtics’ colors.
Biden laughed and said his Secret Service code name is “Celtic” because of his heritage. The president welcomed “Coach Joe” Mazzulla and the team and pointed to the franchise’s rich history in Boston. Quoting Celtics legend Red Auerbach, the president said: “The Celtics aren’t just a basketball team. They’re a way of life,” before being handed a No. 46 jersey from All-Star Jayson Tatum and guard Derrick White. That jersey will proclaim Biden the 46th President of the United States.
White House tradition of NBA champions extends back to 1963, when Bill Russell’s Celtics met President John F. Kennedy. The Celtics have now won at least one championship during eight of the last 13 presidential administrations. During his remarks, Biden expressed a personal connection with Mazzulla, pointing out that Biden is the oldest president and Mazzulla the youngest to win a title since Russell.
The game featured a performing band that played “Shipping Up to Boston.” Some of the special guests included Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. The senator then circulated around the team, tossing an autographed commemorative basketball to Senator Ed Markey and Celtics center Al Horford.
Biden was also heard praising the Celtics for how they played last season, particularly a regular season where they made 64 victories. They were defeated by Dallas Mavericks in a playoff series. This team looks at repeating history as champions this year since no other did it after the Warriors did it in 2018.
Hours after the ceremony, the Celtics team continues discussing with some administration officials problems relevant to the team, such as youngsters’ advocacy programs. Owner Wyc Grousbeck said yesterday was exciting and emotional, while they celebrate the thing that happened, they are also looking forward to the future.
Sam, a dedicated blogger, has immersed himself in the world of content creation for the past five years. His journey reflects a profound passion for storytelling and insightful commentary. Beyond the digital realm, Sam is a devoted NBA enthusiast, seamlessly blending his love for sports with his writing pursuits.