Read, Watch or Listen

BOSTON – One day after he and the Celtics’ coaches routed local reporters 57-4 in a surprise pickup game, head coach Joe Mazzulla explained he staged it to “humanize” interactions and put both sides in the same competitive arena. He noted the staff’s full-court pressure, thanked participants, and even removed his usual podium to keep “guards down.” Citing past tense exchanges, Mazzulla compared a shove during the game to his own sharp reaction to a question, calling it competitive, not personal. He said the event was serious and should happen again.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.