In a career-defining moment, Al Horford, at 38 years old, finally secured his first NBA championship with the Boston Celtics, marking a historic milestone after a remarkable journey spanning 186 playoff games across three different teams.
Previously, Gary Payton held the record with 152 postseason games before clinching a championship with the Miami Heat. Meanwhile, Karl Malone still holds the distinction of the most postseason games without a title, at 193.
“I’ll always remember what Danny Ainge said to me in that meeting,” reminisced Al Horford, now 38, recalling the words of the Celtics’ former president of basketball operations. “He told me, ‘You can win titles anywhere, but there’s something unique about winning in Boston. There’s nothing quite like being a Celtic.'”
In his monumental 186th postseason appearance spanning three teams—the Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Boston Celtics – Horford contributed 9 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals.
Horford’s pivotal decision to join the Celtics in 2016 coincided with the emergence of talents like Jaylen Brown and the subsequent arrival of Jayson Tatum in 2017. Together, they propelled Boston to multiple conference finals and two NBA Finals appearances.
Amidst challenges, including Kristaps Porzingis‘ injury sidelining him for most of the postseason, Horford’s impact was undeniable. He delivered key performances, such as scoring 22 points with 15 rebounds and 5 assists in a critical win against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second round. His 23 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 blocks in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Indiana Pacers were instrumental in positioning Boston for a sweep.
“We leaned on him heavily,” remarked Brown. “Perhaps more than we should have, given his age and experience. But he never faltered. His consistency and dedication to his craft are unmatched. He doesn’t just contribute. he elevates everyone around him.”
Born in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, Horford celebrated his championship win with his daughter, proudly holding the Dominican flag. He made history as the first Dominican-born player to win an NBA title.
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