The Boston Celtics triumphed over the Portland Trail Blazers 102-94 on Monday night at TD Garden, marking a win that carried extra emotional weight for Jaylen Brown. The game was notable as Brown faced two former Celtics teammates, Jrue Holiday and Robert Williams III, for the first time since their trades to Portland, highlighting the evolving nature of NBA rosters.
Holiday was traded last summer after contributing to Boston’s 2024 NBA championship, while Williams was moved following the 2022-23 season. This matchup brought mixed feelings to Brown, who spent multiple seasons alongside both players and found it unusual seeing them compete as opponents.
Returning Stars Jrue Holiday and Robert Williams Receive Warm Welcome
Jrue Holiday was met with a heartfelt reception from the TD Garden crowd, honored with a tribute video during a timeout that celebrated his pivotal role in Boston’s recent championship. The 35-year-old guard earned admiration for his leadership and all-around contributions throughout his two seasons in Boston, especially during the 2024 playoffs, where he impacted both ends of the court.
Robert Williams III also received strong ovations from Celtics fans, who remembered his tenacious rim protection and energetic play. Despite injury setbacks, Williams was recognized as one of the league’s premier defensive centers during his five seasons with Boston. Both Holiday and Williams expressed emotional responses upon returning to their former home arena, recalling the deep connections forged with teammates and supporters.
For Brown, seeing these longtime teammates in rival Trail Blazers uniforms underscored how quickly team compositions shift, yet sparked a sentimental moment in an intense game environment. Reflecting on the night, Brown told reporters,
“Two great guys, two great people. On the floor, but off the floor as well,”
adding,
“Jrue has a great family. And Rob is just a great dude. Still a little weird to see them on the other side.”
Performance Highlights of Holiday and Williams Against Their Former Team
Jrue Holiday demonstrated the versatility that made him invaluable in Boston by contributing 14 points, four rebounds, three assists, two steals, and a block. His defensive flexibility and smart decision-making were evident throughout the contest, affirming his importance to Portland’s path forward. Meanwhile, Robert Williams made notable contributions off the bench, tallying six points, two rebounds, two steals, and a block in 20 minutes. His hustle and rim protection reminded Celtics fans of the defensive presence they lost with his departure.
Both players maintained professionalism and intensity despite the emotional stakes, pushing Portland to challenge Boston, though the Celtics’ depth and precise execution ultimately secured the win.
Upcoming Matchup Offers Another Personal Challenge for Jaylen Brown
Looking ahead, Brown prepares to face another former teammate, Kristaps Porzingis, when the Atlanta Hawks visit TD Garden on Wednesday night. Porzingis was shipped to Atlanta last summer after contributing to Boston’s championship run, continuing the theme of roster turnover on the Celtics’ title-winning squad.
This ongoing evolution highlights the swift changes typical in the NBA, yet Boston remains a dominant force. Brown’s calm demeanor and respect for his former teammates stand out as he balances the emotional aspects of such reunions with competitive focus.
Jaylen Brown’s Impactful Night and Reflection on Team Changes
Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 20 points, alongside eight rebounds, four assists, and four steals, demonstrating his integral role in Boston’s win over Portland. The contest was notable not just for the scoreboard but for the emotional resonance of facing Jrue Holiday and Robert Williams, two players instrumental in past Celtics success.
Brown expressed the complexity of those feelings candidly, emphasizing the respect and camaraderie shared off the court despite the rivalry in uniforms now. With Portland’s Holiday and Williams performing admirably, Boston’s collective strength and execution ultimately made the difference.
As Brown gears up for the game against the Atlanta Hawks, the emotional reunions serve as a reminder of how rapidly NBA teams transform, even within a championship window, underscoring the resilience and adaptability that define the Celtics’ ongoing pursuit of excellence.
Jaylen Brown on Jrue Holiday and Robert Williams III:
“2 great guys, 2 great people. On the floor, but off the floor as well. Jrue has a great family. And Rob is just a great dude…Still a little weird to see them on the other side.”
–@CLNSMedia pic.twitter.com/U8vTWBQOR6— Celtics on CLNS (@CelticsCLNS) January 27, 2026
A look at Jrue Holiday’s tribute video:
— SleeperCeltics (@SleeperCeltics) January 27, 2026
