Biden Hosts Boston Celtics at White House to Celebrate 18th NBA Championship

Biden Welcomes Boston Celtics to the White House

President Joe Biden greeted the Boston Celtics on the South Lawn of the White House on Thursday. The event celebrated the Celtics’ recent NBA championship win, marking the team’s 18th title.

In a tradition that dates back to 1963, when the Celtics first met President John F. Kennedy, Biden honored the team, noting their success under head coach Joe Mazzulla. Biden remarked, “The Celtics aren’t just a basketball team. They’re a way of life.”

During the ceremony, Biden received a No. 46 jersey from All-Star Jayson Tatum and guard Derrick White. He shared that his Secret Service code name is “Celtic” because of his Irish heritage. He expressed pride in the championship title, saying, “From this old Irish Celtic, to all you Celtics, congratulations.”

Biden compared his age and experience to Mazzulla’s youth. He mentioned, “Joe’s the youngest head coach to win a title since Bill Russell. I used to be the youngest, and now I’m the oldest. I liked being the youngest better.”

The celebration featured music and green lights shining from the White House. Many notable attendees included Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu.

Derrick White shared his excitement about being in the White House, saying, “To be where all the decisions — all the cool things — are happening, that was the best part.”

Biden received a commemorative basketball, engaging with team members during the event. He showcased his knowledge of the Celtics’ history, calling attention to their impressive 64 wins in the previous season and their playoff success.

After the ceremony, Celtics organizers discussed important issues with administration officials. This included topics like the “Raise the Age” initiative for juvenile justice reform and “Curbside Care” for maternal medical aid.

The event was lively and meaningful for the Celtics, highlighting their achievements and connection to the community. Celtics co-owner Wyc Grousbeck noted that everyone had a great time, celebrating their historic accomplishment together in a memorable setting.