Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown weren't the only ones representing the Boston Celtics at the 2023 NBA All-Star Game. Head coach Joe Mazzulla joined his star duo in Salt Lake City as the coach for Team Giannis.
Before the action, Mazzulla took a moment to address the team with a passionate speech. He praised his All-Stars for not just their talents on the court, but also what they bring to the table off of it.
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"The reason why I came into the league was to let people know and build a platform of how great of people you are," Mazzulla said. "You guys don't get enough credit. People judge you by your basketball and I want to try to help change that for you. And so, the person that you guys are, you're just as important and I like the individual empowerment. I think that's important.
"So cherish tonight. Know that you guys have inspired me, our staff, our team, our families and the world. I love watching people try and be great. I think that's the coolest thing. And you are a bunch of guys that just work every day to be great at what you do, and I appreciate that. Thank you."
You can watch Mazzulla's speech in the Celtics' Instagram video below:
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The clip provides a glimpse at the leadership Mazzulla has given the Celtics through the first half of the 2022-23 season. Mazzulla and the C's overcame the sudden suspension of Ime Udoka by heading into the All-Star break with a league-best 42-17 record. The organization rewarded Mazzulla by removing his interim tag and officially naming him the 19th head coach in franchise history.
The Celtics will look to stay hot when they return to action against the Indiana Pacers on Thursday.