It was an epic back-and-forth that saw Jayson Tatum hit the eventual game-winning three pointer in the final second, and Giannis Antetokunmpo missing what would have been an overtime-forcing free throw with no time on the clock. The Celtics had gone blow-for-blow with what was projected to be one of the Eastern Conference’s best teams, and won.
Just like that, the most hyped sporting event of the year is over.
For what may be the final time, Tom Brady sprinkled his magic dust on the local sports scene, but his rainy airport goodbye leaves the hometown Patriots at 1-3 on the season. While the Red Sox have at least one more big matchup to go, Monday’s weather seems to match the forecast for the coming months in Boston sports.
The hype train from Foxboro didn’t bother to make the trip up to Causeway Street. Maybe it was those new highway exit numbers. But there’s almost no hype for the Boston Celtics going into the preseason. Then again, after the lead balloon that was the end of last year, perhaps they don’t deserve any.
Had there been fireworks over the summer, maybe things would be different. But I think I prefer it this way. And so should the Celtics. On the sliding scale of NBA training camps, with one currently resembling a reality dating show and another a freshman year philosophy class, new coach Ime Udoka’s camp has been pretty short on drama.
That doesn’t mean this season won’t be worth watching.
Sean Sylver can be heard on 98.5 The Sports Hub. Talk hoops with him on Twitter @TheSylverFox.
