The Boston Celtics clinched their 18th championship by defeating the Dallas Mavericks with a decisive 106-88 victory on Monday night. Following this triumph, the city of Boston came alive on Friday to honor their basketball heroes in grand fashion.
In a tradition befitting Boston’s sports legacy, over a million fans lined the streets as the Celtics embarked on a celebratory duck boat parade through the heart of the city. This marked the 13th championship celebration this century for one of Boston’s esteemed Big 4 professional sports teams.
The Celtics joined the ranks of the Patriots, Red Sox, and Bruins in the time-honored tradition of cruising through city streets aboard duck boats—amphibious vehicles typically used for sightseeing tours. This celebratory parade underscored Boston’s dominance in sports, cementing the Celtics’ status as NBA champions after their commanding five-game series win over the Mavericks.
Along the parade route, jubilant fans shared their excitement, while Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, reveling in the victory, enjoyed the spoils of a friendly wager with Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, who sent Boston some of Texas’ renowned barbecue.
“It’s unbelievable. It still doesn’t seem true. But just trying to stay in the moment,” remarked All-Star Jayson Tatum during a pre-parade rally at the Garden, reflecting on the team’s incredible achievement.
Owner Wyc Grousbeck added to the festivities, surprising fans as he, accompanied by his family, navigated through traffic to the arena, carrying the Larry O’Brien Trophy and the freshly minted 2024 championship banner.
Inside TD Garden, the celebration continued with a rally featuring players, their families, Celtics staff, season ticket holders, and special guests including Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey and Mayor Michelle Wu. Jaylen Brown encapsulated the team’s spirit with his remarks on unity and determination.
The parade, commencing from TD Garden at 11 a.m., wound its way through Causeway Street, Boston Common, and Boylston Street, culminating at the Hynes Convention Center after a spirited 90-minute journey through the city’s historic streets.
For those who missed the live spectacle, NBC10 Boston provided full coverage of the Celtics’ memorable duck boat parade, capturing the essence of Boston’s pride and the Celtics’ triumphant moment in sports history.