The Boston Celtics had their latest celebration of their 2024 NBA championship Thursday afternoon with the long-time tradition of visiting the White House in the nation’s capital.
President Joe Biden welcomed the Celtics to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue for the traditional ceremony to honor the champions, in this case a historic season for Boston for an NBA-best 18th championship.
Here’s a few highlights from the visit to the White House for the Celtics:
CELTIC SECURITY
President Biden began his remarks with an interesting connection to the Celtics.
“All of you might not know this, but my secret service name is Celtic, for real because I’m Irish,” Biden said, per White House video.
Is that a security breach or a cool story?
Either way, Biden made an early connection to the NBA champions.
“Everybody behind me is Irish in their heart,” Biden added. “I feel a special pride in this trophy. From this old Irish Celtic to all you Celtics, congratulations.”
GIFT PRESENTATION
Jayson Tatum and Derrick White presented President Biden with a No. 46 green Celtics jersey to America’s 46th president as well as a basketball with the presidential seal.
Hold that thought on that basketball…
THINK FAST!
President Biden did not leave the gifted basketball on display solely as a prop. He followed his remarks by taking the ball, showing a pump fake and dished a pass to the front row of the Celtics congregation to Al Horford.
HISTORY LESSON
Biden noted the significance of the Celtics continuing the visiting tradition given Boston was the first NBA franchise to begin that run when John F. Kennedy opened the doors of the White House in January 1963.
That meeting brought several ties for the nation’s 35th president and Brookline, Mass. native.
