Al Horford makes decision on retirement after capturing elusive title

Jan 28, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) prepares for a game against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Boston Celtics big man Al Horford finally won an NBA championship on Monday night, and many have wondered if he will now ride off into the sunset. It does not sound like that is the plan.

In an interview with “The Greg Hill Show” on WEEI Tuesday morning, Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck revealed that Horford is planning to return to the team next season.

“Al is coming back for next year,” Grousbeck said. “That’s what I’ve been told. … He loves it here. He and his family love it here. He couldn’t be happier, and we are also happy to have him.”

Grousbeck also noted how the Celtics beat Horford’s Atlanta Hawks in 2008 on the way to Boston’s last NBA championship. That gives you some perspective into how long Horford has been chasing a title.

Game 5 of the NBA Finals was the 186th postseason game of Horford’s career. No player appeared in more postseason games before winning a championship than the former Florida star. Gary Payton held the previous mark at 152 career playoff games before he won it all with the Miami Heat. Karl Malone holds the record for most postseason games without winning a championship, which is 193.

Horford is still under contract with the Celtics next season at a reasonable $9.5 million. He told ESPN’s Dave McMenamin on Sunday that he feels good and wants to keep playing next year.

Horford averaged 8.6 points and 6.4 rebounds per game during the regular season. He played 26.8 minutes per game in the regular season and saw his role expand to 30.3 minutes per game in the playoffs. In addition to being a leader, Horford averaged 9.2 points and 7.0 rebounds per game during Boston’s championship run. There is no question the Celtics value him and are hoping to have him back.