The Celtics and Superstition: A Surprising Take
Athletes across all levels are often known for their superstitions, from pre-game meals to specific clothing or rituals. These routines are believed to bring luck and consistency to their performances. In an intriguing interview with NBC Sports Boston, reporter Chris Forsberg delved into the superstitions of the Boston Celtics, only to find that this team stands out for its lack of superstition.
No Superstitions Here: The Celtics’ Unique Approach
When Forsberg asked the Celtics players and head coach Joe Mazzulla about their superstitions, the responses were surprisingly uniform: they have none. Kristaps Porzingis, Neemias Queta, Al Horford, and Baylor Scheierman all declared that they do not follow any pre-game rituals. Even Mazzulla, known for his straightforward and sometimes blunt approach, summed it up succinctly: “No. That’s stupid.”
A Few Holdouts: The Players with Rituals
While the majority of the Celtics dismissed the idea of superstitions, a few players did share their personal routines. Sam Hauser, for instance, likes to keep the same general routine on game days, finding comfort in familiarity. Jrue Holiday has a more spiritual approach, praying before each game and kissing his wrist for good luck. Payton Pritchard, known for his precise game, changes his shoes after a rough shooting performance, hoping to turn his luck around.
Derrick White’s Unique Quirks
The most unexpected and entertaining response came from Derrick White. He admitted to having a unique set of rituals when he was struggling with his performance. “When I was real bad, I had to watch the same TV show or the movie. I had to eat the same thing. I have to drive the same way,” he explained. His favorite pre-game ritual involved romantic comedies, or "rom-coms" as he put it. “I had a big rom-com thing. I had to watch a rom-com before (games),” he shared, adding that the titles often blended together in his memory.
The Team’s Success: A Blend of Talent and Strategy
Despite the lack of widespread superstitions, the Boston Celtics are performing exceptionally well. Currently second in the Eastern Conference standings with a 38-16 record, the team is on a strong trajectory toward a potential repeat championship. Their success can be attributed to a blend of talent, coaching, and strategic play, rather than any specific pre-game rituals. The team’s focus on fundamentals and teamwork seems to be the winning formula.
Looking Ahead: The Celtics’ Next Move
As the Celtics prepare for their final game before the NBA All-Star break, they face the San Antonio Spurs. This game will be a crucial test of their current form and strategy. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if the Celtics can maintain their momentum and continue their journey toward another championship. Whether or not superstitions play a role, the team’s performance on the court will be the ultimate measure of their success.
