By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Wrapping up the 2024 NBA Preseason schedule, the Boston Celtics are launching the defense of the NBA championship during the 2024-25 Regular Season.
Besides the obvious goal, there was a challenge presented by the head coach of Panathinaikos Aktor, Ergin Ataman, regarding a game between his side and the Celtics in Athens as a meeting of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague and NBA champions.
“I do not think about ‘what ifs’ or hypotheticals. I do not think it is going to happen,” Jayson Tatum mentioned after the friendly contest against the Toronto Raptors in Scotiabank Arena on Tuesday, relays Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, “I guess it is fun to talk about, but I doubt it is going to happen any time soon.”
“I will play any team on the schedule. I really do not care,” was a brief comment by head coach Joe Mazzulla on a potential matchup with the Greens.
Fans in the United States and players alike referring to the NBA champion as the world champion sourced premature thoughts about revamping an annual clash between the European and NBA champions.
“I truly believe this is the best league in the world. So when we say ‘world champions’, we do not say it lightly. It is well deserved. Everyone works hard to get to this level. If any other league in the world says they are world champions or whatever, I do not pay much attention,” reacted Xavier Tillman, “I feel that this is the best league in the world.”