Doc Rivers Keeps 'Emotional Energy' With Celtics, Boston Forever
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Doc Rivers Forever Tied to Celtics, Boston Through ‘Emotional Energy’

In Boston, Doc Rivers is remembered as the last head coach to guide the Celtics to an NBA Finals victory back in 2008. His connection with the city remains strong, even though he left over a decade ago.

Rivers made the move to sunny Los Angeles in 2013, leaving behind Boston’s rebuilding phase. Yet, the triumph of the 2008 NBA Finals continues to be a proud moment, with the banner still displayed in the TD Garden. Rivers’ journey took him through various teams, including the Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, and now the Milwaukee Bucks, but his bond with Boston has never waned.

Before a game against the Celtics at TD Garden, Rivers shared, “I was here for nine years, we won a title, we went to the finals twice. My emotional energy will always be here. This is another home for me. I come here in the summer, spend time, and go to the vineyard. I feel like a Bostonian when I do that, and that will never go away.”

Rivers took charge of the Celtics in 2007, a team that had a dismal record of 24-58, placing them at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Initially, there were doubts about his suitability for the role, but those were quickly dispelled when the Celtics clinched the championship by defeating the Los Angeles Lakers the following year.

This victory solidified Rivers’ status in Boston, earning him a lasting respect that remained even as he chose not to stay with the team through its rebuilding years. Rivers’ affection extends beyond the team to include the broader organization and its people.

Rivers feels a deep connection whenever he returns, saying, “I’m not removed from it when I get to the building. When you walk in and see all the people you know, your friends are still your friends here. They don’t go away. You have special relationships with people here. That’s the part that people don’t get, that will never go away. Your connection to those people never leaves.”

Each time Rivers returns to Boston to coach against the Celtics, the boos from the home crowd have lessened. Last season, his 76ers were knocked out by the Celtics in the East semifinals. Now, leading the Bucks, there’s a chance Rivers and the Celtics might meet again, adding another chapter to his enduring relationship with Boston.