BOSTON -- The recent visit of the NBA Champion Boston Celtics to the White House was nothing short of spectacular, marked not only by the celebration of their triumph but also by moments of humor and heartfelt connections with President Joe Biden. On Thursday, November 21, 2024, the franchise was honored at the White House for winning its 18th NBA Championship, solidifying its status as the winningest franchise in league history. The ceremony unfolded on the South Lawn, where President Biden warmly greeted players, coaches, and team staff, reflecting on the team's legacy, its achievements, and its significant role within the community.
During his address, Biden noted the historic visit of the Celtics, who were first recognized by then-President John F. Kennedy back in 1963 as the first NBA champion to step foot on the White House lawn. "You guys aren’t just last year’s champions; you’re the winningest franchise in league history," Biden remarked, emphasizing the Celtics' rich tradition and contributions to the sport.
Among the notable attendees were star players Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and coach Joe Mazzulla, all of whom basked in the spotlight amid their well-deserved celebration. Biden praised their teamwork throughout the grueling season, culminating in victories over formidable opponents. "Together, you built one of the deepest teams of all time," he stated, referencing their impressive record of 64 wins last season and highlighting their playoff performance, which included series wins over the Miami Heat and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
With the party mood set, Biden lightened the atmosphere with humor, joking about his age relative to Mazzulla’s claim to being the youngest head coach to win a title since the legendary Bill Russell. "I told him I used to be the youngest, and now I'm the oldest. I liked being the youngest back then,” he quipped, drawing laughter from the crowd. He then transitioned to share his personal connection to the team through his Secret Service code name, "Celtic," proclaiming, "For real, because I’m Irish. Everybody behind me is Irish at heart!"
After the speeches, the occasion took on a more ceremonial flair as the Celtics presented Biden with his very own custom Celtics jersey, inscribed with the number 46—symbolizing his status as the 46th president of the United States. Alongside this gift, they also gave him a commemorative basketball, which he playfully tossed around, engaging with attendees, including passing it to Senator Ed Markey. "You can tell he’s still got it!" one onlooker commented as Biden demonstrated his throwing skills.
Yet the day's significance extended beyond mere celebration of the Celtics’ on-court success. Following the ceremony, some team members, including co-owner Wyc Grousbeck and team President Brad Stevens, remained at the White House to discuss pressing community initiatives with policy advisors. These discussions targeted issues of racial and social injustice and the urgent need for equitable healthcare access within underprivileged neighborhoods. Celtics vice president of basketball operations Mike Zarren highlighted two priority initiatives: the "Raise the Age" movement, aimed at redefining how certain young offenders are treated, and the "Curbside Care" program, which proposes to utilize specially modified ambulances as mobile care units for mothers and children. Zarren expressed hope for collaboration with the White House to expand these initiatives, emphasizing their unique approaches to addressing social disparities.
Grousbeck noted how important it was for the Celtics to utilize their platform and visibility to advocate for meaningful change, stating, "This was a very exciting and moving day. We really got to know the President and spend some personal time with him, which was just meaningful." The team recognizes the power of sports to inspire unity and support efforts aimed at social equity.
The Celtics’ White House visit was especially poignant as it marked the team’s return to the executive mansion after their last visit following the 2008 Championship victory. Currently, the Celtics are enjoying another strong season, boasting 12 wins and just 3 losses early on, and aim to repeat as champions, something only accomplished by the Golden State Warriors recently. The team continues to aim high, and their engagement with significant social issues reflects their commitment to being leaders both on and off the court.
At the conclusion of the day, anecdotes about the camaraderie and light-hearted interactions—like Jayson Tatum nearly considering taking the president’s chair during their Oval Office tour—made headlines and reiterated the deep connections formed not only through sports but also through shared values and community commitments.
Approaching the 2025 season, the Boston Celtics not only carry the hope of their franchise forward but also embody the spirit of champions committed to making their mark beyond just basketball. With every win, they are increasingly aware of their role as ambassadors of change, and their recent visit with President Biden captures the essence of where sports, leadership, and community commitment can intersect.
