At 34 years old, Jrue Holiday is far from the twilight of his career. Arriving in Boston with a wealth of experience and accolades, the seasoned guard seems poised to make a considerable impact on the reigning NBA champions as they embark on the 2024-25 season. Holiday’s credentials are impeccable: 15 seasons in the NBA, multiple All-Star appearances, a 2021 NBA championship with the Milwaukee Bucks, and two Olympic gold medals with the USA Basketball team, earned first in Tokyo and then in Paris.
The Boston Celtics, having clinched the NBA title last season, have bolstered their roster by adding one of the league’s best perimeter defenders. Holiday’s presence is expected to elevate their defense to an even higher level, an aspect of the game he takes immense pride in. “Sometimes it’s not always about having the best players. Sometimes it is about chemistry, and luckily for us, we had both,” Holiday shared, emphasizing the importance of team dynamics.
The Championship Drive
Reflecting on his career and accomplishments, Holiday doesn't downplay the significance of winning championships. “I’d have to say the championship, for a couple of reasons. One would be as a little kid, I feel like this is what you dreamed about. Like, winning the NBA championship... and then doing it for the city [of Boston], and it being since 2008 and just seeing, like, how the city backs you and the support that you get, it was amazing,” he said. The blend of personal achievement and the joy of delivering success to passionate fanbases defines his legacy.
Holiday acknowledges the historical weight that comes with winning in a city like Boston. “It’s cool, I think the Bucks one was like 50 years or something, just insane. But I will say there is a bit of a difference in legacy when it comes to Milwaukee and Boston. So being able to do it [in Boston] and experience that was crazy.”
Team-first Mentality
Holiday’s approach to the game underscores a team-first mentality. "You have to be able to sacrifice, and you have to be able to look at the ultimate goal. It’s not always about being a superstar. The role players are just as important, and they’re kind of what makes this engine go." This perspective bodes well for the Celtics, a team that thrives on balanced contributions and depth.
Touching on the roles within the team, Holiday appreciates how different players can step up at any moment. “Every game is going to be different. Like [Derrick] White might be going crazy in this game, or [Kristaps Porzingis] might be going crazy this game. So it makes it easy knowing that you could have a great game and your teammates support you.”
Overcoming Challenges
Despite his numerous achievements, Holiday’s journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. He has undergone four or five surgeries throughout his career, a testament to his resilience and determination. “I think I’ve had four or five surgeries since then, and I’m sure no one would even be able to tell because of how well I take care of my body.” His long-term partnership with Thorne Supplements has played a crucial role in his performance and recovery. “I don’t think people understand how much Thorne has helped me just to stay on the court, to recover from injuries, to recover after a long game.”
Health and fitness remain paramount for the veteran. His awareness of diet and recovery has evolved significantly over the years. “I used to eat terribly... At 19 or 20 or 21 you can do anything you want and bounce back the next day... So I’ve definitely grown and matured in that way.”
Settling into Boston
Holiday’s transition to the Celtics roster wasn’t without its hiccups. He arrived late to the team’s training camp due to clearance issues, which delayed his integration. “I came to Boston and I think I missed the first day of training camp because I wasn’t cleared yet. So it took me a little while, but my teammates did help me build my confidence.”
Coach Joe Mazzulla plays a pivotal role in fostering that confidence and spirit. Holiday describes his new coach as someone who thrives under pressure. “He loves being the one doubted. He loves being the underdog. And he loves the fight.” This mentality resonated strongly with Holiday, encapsulating the relentless drive and fierce competitiveness that defines their shared journey.
As the Celtics look to defend their title, Jrue Holiday’s arrival marks a significant chapter in their quest for back-to-back championships. His blend of talent, experience, and leadership will undoubtedly be instrumental in their pursuit of continued success. The city of Boston, known for its storied sports history, eagerly awaits the new heights Holiday and his teammates strive to reach.