Brief

Paul George says he’s rediscovered his love for basketball after joining Celtics

The former 76ers forward says the Celtics’ locker room, city and tradition have reignited his passion for the game.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 19 Oct 2026 03:09:09 GMT

Paul George told Boston Globe reporter Gary Washburn that he is "fully immersing myself into this organization with the guys" after being traded from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Boston Celtics, according to Bleacher Report.

George said he feels "ecstatic" about the move and praised the Celtics’ locker room, culture, front office and city, calling the environment "high quality" and "refreshing." He added that he hopes to stay healthy and would like to call Boston home.

The veteran forward, 36, spent seven seasons with the Indiana Pacers before stints with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Clippers and two seasons in Philadelphia. Injuries limited him to 41 games in 2024‑25 and 31 games in 2025‑26 with the 76ers. George’s résumé includes six All‑NBA selections, nine All‑Star appearances and four All‑Defensive team honors.

While the Celtics are unlikely to expect George to replicate his peak performance, he will not be the primary playmaker, with Jayson Tatum, Derrick White and Payton Pritchard already handling those duties. George said the new role could let him exploit open space and help Boston pursue a deep Eastern Conference playoff run.

Key facts

Paul George was traded from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Boston Celtics. (bleacherreport.com)
George said he is "fully immersing" himself in the Celtics organization and feels "ecstatic" about the move. (bleacherreport.com)
He highlighted the Celtics' locker room, culture, front office and city as high‑quality and refreshing. (bleacherreport.com)
George hopes to stay healthy and eventually call Boston home. (bleacherreport.com)
He will not be the primary playmaker, with Jayson Tatum, Derrick White and Payton Pritchard leading that role. (bleacherreport.com)