The 2023 NBA Playoff series between the Celtics and Heat was nothing short of must-see television. It included Jimmy Butler taking over games with multiple clutch moments, his viral facial expressions at the end of losses, Boston’s near-comeback from a 3–0 deficit and, of course, the Grant Williams–Butler drama.
Williams, now a member of the Mavericks following a sign-and-trade this offseason, took some heat from fans and media for seemingly trash-talking Butler in Game 2, who responded dominantly. Midway through the fourth quarter of that game, Williams hit a three-pointer to give Boston a nine-point lead and proceeded to get in Butler’s face. Things went south from there.
The Heat outscored the Celtics 24-9 after this Jimmy and Grant face-off 😳🌶️ pic.twitter.com/517RREFVWW
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 20, 2023
The Heat went on a 24–9 run to end the game, with Butler scoring nine points during the stretch to extend the series lead to 2–0.
While it was never publicly known what was said between Williams and Butler, the former has now opened up on the topic during a discussion with Tidal League.
“Jimmy says ‘hell naw he ain’t here,’ so I made a three, and I said ‘hell no, motherf-----, I’m here! … The next play, Jimmy … boom boom, stop, pivot, and-one, and he says ‘I’m here too, motherf-----!’” Williams said.
It’s always cool to hear what’s said during exchanges like this, and the one between Williams and Butler was certainly memorable. Fortunately, the context of the back-and-forth doesn’t disappoint.
