The Boston Celtics began the second half of their 2024 NBA season on Thursday night at Chase Center in San Francisco, defeating the Golden State Warriors 121-110 to improve to 36-19 and maintain second place in the Eastern Conference. This game also marked a notable reunion, as Al Horford faced his former team for the first time since departing Boston last summer after helping deliver the Celtics’ 2024 championship. Horford, now with the Warriors, spoke candidly to reporters about his departure, hinting there was more to the story than had been previously known.
At first glance, Horford’s move seemed straightforward. Boston’s aspirations were clouded by Jayson Tatum‘s Achilles injury, which diminished their championship window, and the team had parted ways with Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. Approaching his 40th birthday, Horford signed with Golden State to pursue another title alongside stars Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. However, before tip-off on Thursday, Horford revealed there was a deeper reason behind his exit.
For me, the decision, it’s something that’s deeper than just the basketball stuff,
Horford said.
And it’s something that at some point I’ll share with people, but for me, it felt like it was the time for me to go elsewhere.
His words carried weight and indicated he was choosing when to fully explain his motivations. Horford’s reputation for transparency makes this pause especially notable to fans who have long admired his dedication to Boston.
Horford’s Lasting Influence on the Celtics Organization
Over two stints with the Celtics—from 2016 to 2019 and returning in 2021—Horford solidified his place as one of the franchise’s most respected veterans. Culminating in the 2024 NBA championship, his nearly decade-long presence went beyond his stat line; he was a trusted leader for younger players and a dependable force in crucial moments. His close relationship with the team extended off the court as well, with his son Ean often seen courtside, symbolizing the family atmosphere that enveloped the Celtics.
Even after joining Golden State, Horford remains a valuable contributor. This season, he is averaging 7.6 points and 4.9 rebounds over 34 games, serving as an experienced floor spacer and team connector. In the matchup against Boston, he recorded 5 points and 8 rebounds, a reminder of his enduring impact on both franchises.
Despite leaving, Horford expressed respect and optimism for the Celtics’ future. He praised the unexpected progress of players Neemias Queta and Jordan Walsh and credited head coaches Joe Mazzulla and Brad Stevens for crafting a sustainable foundation within the organization.
Celtics Control Game for Most of the Night
The Celtics dominated the contest from start to finish on Thursday. They executed their offense efficiently, racking up 19 assists in just the first half and building a commanding 23-point lead by halftime, which extended to as many as 34 points during the third quarter. Jaylen Brown, playing in his first game after being named an All-Star starter, shone brightly. He achieved a triple-double with 23 points, 15 rebounds, and 13 assists by the third quarter’s closing moments. Payton Pritchard also contributed significantly with 26 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds.
Though the Warriors reduced the margin to 11 points in the final quarter, Brown’s return with six minutes left helped calm the Celtics and maintain control. Golden State was unable to mount a successful comeback, sealing Boston’s strong start to the season’s latter half.
Looking Ahead: What Horford’s Remarks Mean for Celtics Fans
Al Horford’s somewhat cryptic comments on his Boston exit have sparked curiosity but did not suggest any animosity. His praise for the organization and his former teammates reinforced the respect on both sides since his departure. Fans will likely await the full story when Horford chooses to share it, knowing his long history with the Celtics lends weight to his words.
With Boston holding a 36-19 record and Jayson Tatum reportedly nearing a return, the team appears poised to continue competing at a high level. Brown’s triple-double performance and strong bench contributions signal that the Celtics have picked up momentum for the second half of the season. Their ball movement and cohesion on Thursday reflected a group determined to build on their championship foundation and meet evolving challenges.
Horford to @RealBobManning on his departure from BOS: "For me, the decision, it's something that's deeper than just the basketball stuff. And it's something that at some point I'll share with people, but for me, it felt like it was the time for me to go elsewhere." @CLNSMedia pic.twitter.com/lsPh0sJHYP
— Celtics on CLNS (@CelticsCLNS) February 20, 2026
https://twitter.com/LegionHoops/status/2024684884262858795
#CelticsWin pic.twitter.com/AQ8j2v6N2T
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) February 20, 2026
