On November 21, 2024, President Joe Biden welcomed the Boston Celtics to the White House to celebrate their NBA championship victory. The event featured moments of humor, tradition, and reflections on the Celtics’ storied legacy in basketball.
A Humorous Slip-Up
During his remarks, President Biden briefly stumbled over the team’s name, referring to them as “the Boston… the Boston Celtics.” Quickly recovering, he turned to the players and joked, “I know who you are,” prompting laughter from those in attendance. The lighthearted moment added levity to the ceremony.
Revealing a Secret
In a surprise comment, Biden disclosed that his Secret Service code name is “Celtic.” The president quipped, “I might be a little biased,” in an apparent nod to the connection between his code name and the celebrated Boston basketball team. The comment added a personal touch to the event, as Biden expressed admiration for the Celtics’ perseverance and teamwork.
Honoring a Championship Legacy
The Celtics’ 2024 victory marked their 18th NBA championship, tying them with the Los Angeles Lakers for the most titles in NBA history. This win was their first since 2008, cementing their legacy as one of the league’s most successful franchises. President Biden praised the team for their resilience during a hard-fought season, highlighting the values of unity and determination that carried them to victory.
Timing of the Visit
While championship teams traditionally visit the White House during the winter or spring following their victory, the Celtics’ visit was scheduled earlier, in November. This departure from tradition may reflect the packed schedules of both the team and the administration. By comparison, the Denver Nuggets, winners of the 2023 NBA championship, visited the White House in late January 2024.
Continuing White House Traditions
The event continued the long-standing tradition of honoring sports champions at the White House, which dates back to 1865 when President Andrew Johnson hosted baseball teams. President Biden tied the Celtics’ achievement to broader themes of teamwork and perseverance, qualities he said exemplify the “best of America.”
Celtics’ Gratitude and Public Reaction
Team captain Jayson Tatum and head coach Joe Mazzulla expressed their appreciation for the recognition. Tatum stated that the team was proud to represent Boston on the national stage and looked forward to bringing home future championships. The players also interacted with fans and staff, making the occasion memorable for everyone involved.
The ceremony drew mixed reactions online. Many praised Biden’s lighthearted humor and his effort to connect with the team, while critics used the moment to question his cognitive sharpness. Regardless, the event successfully celebrated the Celtics’ monumental achievement and reinforced the White House’s tradition of honoring excellence in sports.
Sources
- Fox News
- ESPN reports on the Boston Celtics’ 2024 NBA championship victory.
- Social media reactions compiled from Twitter posts following the White House event.
