At Horford after the game
Al Horford talks about his feelings after Boston’s 7th game win over Miami.
At Horford he is in the finals after playing more postseason games before getting there than anyone in NBA history.
The veteran Celtics center-back had played 141 games in the playoffs without advancing beyond the conference finals, a league record finally broken after Boston’s 7th game win over Miami on Sunday.
When the final bell rang, Horford was immediately overwhelmed by the long-awaited moment. The 15-year veteran collapsed to the ground and screamed repeatedly, hitting the hardwood before getting up to be hugged by fellow Celtics teammates and employees.
An emotional Al Horford after advancing to his first #NBAFinals presented by @YouTubeTV! pic.twitter.com/GFzAe5JC0I
– NBA (@NBA) May 30, 2022
The five-time All-Star has missed the playoffs just twice since Atlanta was selected third overall in 2007, but fell short with the Hawks (once) and the Celtics (twice) in his deepest postseason series.
“It’s been a great trip,” Horford admitted. “Many battles. Obviously, I’ve never been able to do that [until now]but many great companions along the way. “
Boston re-acquired Horford through trade last low season, and the 35-year-old’s defense, size and leadership ended up being exactly what the franchise needed to return to the Finals for the first time since 2010.
“When he came back, he gave us a sense of security,” Celtics baseman Marcus Smart said. “He’s disinterested. Al didn’t care less about numbers. He cares about victories and his team.”
“No one deserves it more than this guy on my right,” Celtics striker Jaylen Brown added. “I’m proud to be able to share this moment with a veteran, a mentor, a brother, a guy like Al Horford, man.”
In addition to eliminating his own endless streak, Horford also becomes the first player to represent the Dominican Republic in The Finals, a fact he celebrated enthusiastically as he wavered between Spanish and English when he they asked about the achievement.
“We’re here in Miami very close to DR,” Horford said. “I know my family is happy. Everyone is happy, everyone is watching. The country was watching, I know everyone was there. They were sending me photos. They were ready for that. We’re enjoying it.”
Horford is the first player to represent the Dominican Republic in the #NBAFinals presented by @YouTubeTV! pic.twitter.com/UFVe9hniBS
– NBA (@NBA) May 30, 2022