Nikola Vucevic Praises Celtics Crowd During Garden Debut

Bassyonni

Published: February 7, 2026 11:15 AM ET

Nikola Vucevic Praises Celtics Crowd During Garden Debut

BOSTON — Nikola Vucevic made a memorable debut for the Boston Celtics, drawing cheers from the TD Garden crowd. The fans were eager to see the new acquisition, who joined the Celtics in a trade from the Chicago Bulls earlier that week. When he entered the game against the Miami Heat, the applause was overwhelming.

Nikola Vucevic Shines in Celtics Debut

Vucevic expressed his gratitude for the warm reception after the game. “Hearing my name getting cheered, especially the ovation when I first got subbed in, was fun,” he stated. The support from the fans is important for players and Vucevic felt that it helped energize the team.

Celtics Face Early Struggles

Despite the initial excitement, the Celtics struggled in the first half. They faced a challenging situation, trailing the Heat by 21 points at halftime. The team’s three-point shooting was notably off, leaving fans with little to celebrate other than Vucevic’s performance.

A Strong Comeback

The game took a turn in the third quarter. The Celtics outperformed the Heat, scoring 36 points compared to just 15 from their opponents. This impressive comeback allowed them to tie the game. Ultimately, Boston clinched a narrow victory, winning 98-96 in Vucevic’s debut.

Vucevic’s Impact on the Game

Nikola Vucevic played a significant role in the game. He recorded a double-double with 11 points, 12 rebounds, and four assists in just 28 minutes of play. His offensive skills should complement Boston’s playing style as a versatile big man capable of floor spacing and passing.

Future Expectations

While it will take time for Vucevic to adjust fully to the Celtics’ system, his debut was promising. Defense remains a concern, but his size and rebounding abilities are valuable assets. “It’s very loud — one of the loudest places in the NBA,” Vucevic remarked about playing in Boston. He appreciates the knowledge and passion of Boston fans, stating, “They really know basketball.”