More than a few Kansas basketball fans were unhappy with the Boston Celtics during the recent NBA draft. We can forgive them now.
During the recently completed NBA draft, the Boston Celtics missed an opportunity. It made more than a few Kansas basketball fans mad. As a matter of fact, I was mad and disappointed for Josh Jackson. I know Jackson cancelled a workout for the Celtics. On the other hand, no Kansas fan likes to see a Duke player – whose name I won’t include, selected ahead of a Kansas Jayhawk.
With their classy move Monday, the Celtics redeemed themselves to Kansas basketball fans. They signed former Jayhawk great Paul Pierce to a final contract. Pierce will get to retire wearing Celtic green.
I am frequently critical of the NBA and big-time professional sports. The decision makers often appear money-hungry with no heart. The Celtics move warmed my heart. After living in Southern California for many years, I always favored the Celtics. From former Kansas great Jo Jo White and beyond. Green is also my favorite color.
In a media release from the Celtics, Pierce shared his thoughts on the agreement.
"It’s an honor to have this opportunity to once again call myself a Boston Celtic. I couldn’t imagine ending my career any other way. I’m a Celtic for life."
I was disappointed when Pierce left Kansas basketball after 3 seasons. Three amazing season for this young man from Southern California. The team was so close to accomplishing even more. When Pierce scored almost 800 points and earned First-team All-America honors for his Junior season, I understood why he left. I was thrilled when the Celtics wanted him. They were lucky to have him.
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Many Kansas basketball fans didn’t like seeing Pierce in a Brooklyn, Washington or LA Clippers uniform. I didn’t like it last month when the Celtics took a Blue Devil over a Jayhawk. Now Kansas basketball fans can find it in their hearts to forgive the Celtics. It will be nice to see Pierce end his basketball career in green.