As the defending NBA champions, the Boston Celtics got the honor of visiting the White House in a yearly championship tradition. For 26-year-old Jayson Tatum, it was his first time in the iconic building and after it was all done, he took a minute to reflect on the experience.
“White House was cool,” said Tatum. “For a lot of us, it was our first time here. Getting to meet President Biden and having the ceremony you know, something that you always watch as a kid, and now to be a part of that tradition is something we’ll always remember.”
Back in June, the Celtics made history by beating the Mavericks in the Finals and capturing their 17th championship (their first since 2008). It was a convincing victory for the Celtics and President Biden made sure to acknowledge their impressive body of work.
“A lot of you may not know this, but my Secret Service code name is Celtic, because I’m Irish,” Biden remarked. “The guys behind me are Irish in their hearts. I know it wasn’t easy… But you put in the work. You clocked one of the greatest seasons ever.”
Pres. Biden welcomed the NBA champion Boston Celtics to the White House on Thursday: "I know it wasn't easy…But you put in the work. You clocked one of the greatest seasons ever." https://t.co/HJvP7ktmTF pic.twitter.com/h9vkc10dsX
— ABC News (@ABC) November 21, 2024
The Celtics also took the opportunity to discuss issues relating to the Shamrock Foundation which aims to aims to benefit New England children in need through programs and funding. For the Celtics, this trip was more than a social call, it was a networking opportunity that could advance their goals.
Of course, the main event involved speeches on the front lawn. Many viral pictures came out of the day, including this one taken by Kristaps Porzingis.
Team White House photo through the Larry O’Brien Trophy, captured by Kristaps Porzingis. #Celtics pic.twitter.com/DHsNLVMntj
— The Celtics Files (@CelticsFiles) November 21, 2024
One of the most memorable moments happened with Tatum when he gifted a signature Celtics jersey to the U.S. President.
Jayson Tatum presented President Joe Biden with a Celtics jersey as the team visited the White House to celebrate their NBA-record 18th championship, secured with a Finals win over the Mavericks. pic.twitter.com/sBQyPeTCoT
— AP Sports (@AP_Sports) November 21, 2024
There were good vibes all around D.C., and it was a refreshing scene from the past presidency. Under Trump, many teams passed up on the White House tradition out of protest for his policy and he responded by taking repeated shots at the players and the current state of the NBA itself.
Since Biden took office, relations have been much friendlier between the NBA and the White House and we saw that tonight. The respect and admiration were evident on both sides and it was a moment that all parties will remember forever.
Of course, with Trump back in power, it could be another four years before we see any NBA team visit the White House again. Only time will tell if any of the next four NBA champions will choose to associate with the controversial Republican President.
Meanwhile, for the Celtics, they could easily find themselves back in play for the NBA championship. With Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Kristaps Porzingis, and Jrue Holiday, they have one of the best cores in the league and they are 2nd in the East this season at 12-3.
If the Celtics keep this trajectory, they have a good chance to defend their title and etch their name in NBA history. Judging by their reaction tonight, and after winning the title in June, the Celtics are eager to continue this run and they will do whatever it takes to be the last team standing.
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