Mike Gorman’s final season is motivation for title-craving Celtics

Mike Gorman’s final season is motivation for title-craving Celtics

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NBC Sports Boston

The 2023-24 Boston Celtics are determined to secure their elusive Banner 18. And for extra inspiration, they have a special goal: giving broadcast legend Mike Gorman a retirement parade.

Gorman’s 43rd season of calling games at TD Garden kicks off on Friday night when the Miami Heat, the team that ended Boston’s title hopes in last season’s Eastern Conference Finals, visit for the home-opener. Gorman will be the play-by-play commentator for all of NBC Sports Boston’s home game broadcasts during his final season.

“It’s a unique and special moment. I’ll definitely miss him calling our games,” said Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens. “While Mike will embark on new adventures and enjoy his life, we need to make a championship run. I hope this year becomes truly memorable for him.”

Stevens, originally from Indiana, quickly learned about Gorman and his longtime broadcast partner Tommy Heinsohn after joining the Celtics organization. Gorman’s voice has always been a constant presence, regardless of the team’s success or their playoff performance.

“Regardless of how good our team is or the playoff opportunities we have, you could always count on hearing his voice, alongside Tommy, for all those years,” said Stevens. “It’s not just special to those of us who know Mike personally and appreciate the kind of person he is, but it’s special to every kid who turns on a Celtics game and has been hearing the same voice for 30 years.”

Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla, much like others his age, has only known Gorman as the voice of Celtics basketball. As a native of Rhode Island, the 35-year-old grew up listening to him and Tommy.

“His voice is unmistakable. I love that guy,” Mazzulla said. “Last year, I got to know him better and we would share stories about the books we were reading and the things we were learning. He’s an amazing person and a presence that brings grace.”

“Being part of the Celtics is the greatest thing, but nothing lasts forever, right? Seeing him leave the Celtics in a better place… it’s inspiring,” Mazzulla continued. “I’m also glad to have had the opportunity to know him.”

While Celtics players don’t experience Gorman’s commentary in real time, they understand that he narrates many of their career highlights, making those moments even more special.

Some of the team’s long-time players feel a duty to give him the best send-off possible.

“Let’s have an incredible year. We wish him well on his next adventure. Let’s make this year unforgettable,” said Jaylen Brown, the longest-tenured Celtics player. “Then he can have fun and spend time with his family. He has made significant contributions to the Celtics and our culture. His impact predates me and everyone else, so I have the utmost respect for him.”

Now, Brown and the team just need to deliver that parade to honor Gorman’s retirement.