An Open Letter from Coach Joe Mazzulla to the Boston Celtics Community
Dear Celtics Family,
I want to take a moment—now that the confetti has settled and the banners have been raised—to speak from the heart. Coaching this team, in this city, for this fan base, has been the greatest honor of my professional life.
Boston is more than just a sports town. It’s a place that demands greatness, and it gives everything in return. From the moment I stepped into the head coaching role, I’ve felt the weight and pride of wearing that Celtics logo on my chest. This is a franchise built on legacy, grit, and an uncompromising standard of excellence. That’s not just pressure—it’s a privilege.
This past year has been a journey. A championship season. A 64-win campaign. But none of it came easy. We battled through tough stretches, tested ourselves mentally and emotionally, and leaned into one another when it mattered most. That’s what being a Celtic is all about: doing the hard things together.
I’ve always said that honesty builds trust. Some of our best moments this year didn’t happen in front of the cameras—they happened in the quiet corners of practice facilities, in film sessions, and in conversations where truth mattered more than comfort. This team embraced that culture. Jayson, Jaylen, Jrue, Derrick—every one of these guys stepped up, not just as players, but as men and leaders.
Giannis once said Milwaukee is his home. For me, Boston has become that too. I’ve grown here—not just as a coach, but as a person. And that growth wouldn’t be possible without the environment you all create: demanding, yes, but incredibly passionate and loyal. You challenge us to be better. You hold us accountable. You lift us when it counts.
To Brad Stevens—thank you for trusting me. To our staff and everyone behind the scenes—your work doesn’t go unnoticed. And to the fans—thank you for believing. For showing up. For reminding us why every possession matters.
This championship belongs to all of us. But we’re not done. The journey continues, and as long as I’m here, I promise to give everything I have to this team, this city, and this legacy.
With pride, humility, and deep gratitude,
Joe Mazzulla