Horford’s Long-Awaited Victory
After 17 seasons, 38-year-old Celtics veteran Al Horford finally tasted championship glory. This win not only ended his title drought but also made him the first Dominican player in history to win an NBA championship, marking a special milestone.
Historic Game 5
Game 5 of the NBA Finals was Horford’s 186th career playoff game. Previously, he had played 185 playoff games without a title, ranking second in NBA history behind Karl Malone’s 193 games. This record was finally broken as Horford and the Celtics celebrated their 18th championship together.
A Veteran’s Achievement
Horford, three years older than Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla, finally lifted the coveted trophy. Emotionally, he said, “It took a long time, but I am very honored to be part of this team. Now that it has happened, all glory to God.”
Gratitude and Reflection
Joining the NBA in 2007, Horford expressed his gratitude to his teammates and family for helping him achieve his championship dream. He remarked, “It’s unbelievable. I still can’t believe we did it. We are here, and it’s incredible.” Winning at home, with all the fans witnessing, was the perfect scenario he had envisioned since first joining the Celtics.
Horford’s Journey
Horford joined the Celtics in 2016. After three seasons, he moved to the Philadelphia 76ers and also played a season with the Oklahoma City Thunder. He returned to Boston in 2021. This year, with Kristaps Porzingis injured, Horford stepped back into the starting lineup, averaging 7.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.2 steals in the five Finals games.
| Stat Category | Finals Average |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 7.0 |
| Rebounds per game | 6.2 |
| Assists per game | 2.6 |
| Steals per game | 1.2 |
Perfect Script for a Championship
Horford highlighted that winning the championship at home, with fans witnessing, was the perfect script. This was the scenario he dreamed of when he first joined the Celtics, and now that dream has come true.(Superace88)