Kristaps Porzingis made his long-awaited debut as a member of the Boston Celtics Sunday evening, helping his new club secure a 116-104 preseason victory over the visiting Philadelphia 76ers. The former All-Star finished the night with 17 points and 5 rebounds in 25 minutes of action, getting his first taste of what it means to play professional basketball in the Hub.
After the game, Porzingis was asked about his experience suiting up in Celtics green for the first time. He’s played plenty of games at the TD Garden in his career, but this was the first time as a member of the home team. He was quick to admire the energy the fans played, while also speaking glowingly of his new teammates. Led by newly-extended guard Payton Pritchard, Boston grabbed a thrilling comeback win.
Buy Celtics Tickets“That was insane,” Porzingis said. “That was insane for a preseason game, I don’t know what to say.”
Porzingis, Holiday make Celtics debut as Celts top Sixers 114-106 in first preseason action https://t.co/2X7bJdNKUp
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) October 9, 2023
“It was a fun game to play,” Porzingis continued. “And it was a fun game to watch. At the end with Pritchard going off, the whole crowd was into it.”
The 2023-24 campaign marks Porzingis’ eighth season as a pro. In his time in the NBA, Porzingis has had some postseason success but has yet to find a rhythm or a home. Boston is his fourth club and represents his best shot at a title.
“I’m very happy to be a Celtic, I’m not going to lie,” Porzingis said.
PHOTOS – 76ers at Boston: Celtics squelch a starless Philly squad 114-106 in preseason opener https://t.co/OoUwAw25BA
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) October 9, 2023
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