Doc Rivers returned to Boston on Wednesday night for the first time as head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers, and Celtics fans gave him the reception he deserved. Rivers was greeted by a standing ovation when he emerged from the visitors tunnel before the game. He was honored again after the first quarter when the Celtics played a video montage on their arena scoreboard.
Doc appeared to be fighting back tears as he made his way to the Clippers’ bench to start the game. When asked about his memorable night after the game, he was even more emotional.
“I’m still emotional…,” Rivers said, pausing to fight back tears before continuing. “I thought the fans were — it was just a really nice day. It’s just such a classy place here.
“When I walked out, and I’m not used to walking out on that side, and all those guys lined up. It didn’t surprise me. You’ve got to live here to understand that. That’s just the way they are. It’s an amazing fan base. It really is. I just want everything to go well for them.”
In a radio interview on Monday, Rivers admitted for the first time that he walked out on the Celtics rather than sticking around for a rebuilding project. He also said that he was hoping to hear cheers and would be surprised if he heard boos from Celtics fans. His reaction to the reception proved that it was probably even warmer than he anticipated.
