‘It’s a lot bigger than myself,’ Luke Kornet says with Celtics star leaning to faith to ‘give thanks’ for NBA Finals win
THE Boston Celtics held a 20-point lead with just over a minute left on the clock, being moments away from claiming Banner 18 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals.
Still, Luke Kornet, 28, struggles to pinpoint the moment he knew the series with the Dallas Mavericks was over.
"When there were zeros on the clock and we were celebrating riotously…" the 7-foot-1 center says in the Celtics locker room, covered in champagne-drenched plastic tarps and filled with clouds of cigar smoke on Monday night.
"I guess when they were holding the ball?
"I don't know, honestly. In a way, it feels like we still don't even know yet."
The Celtics became the most decorated NBA franchise again after the 106-88 win in Game 5, concluding a postseason run that might well earn them a spot among the most dominant teams ever.
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Being part of that special group feels like a reward for the resilience and patience Kornet has shown during his career.
The ex-Vanderbilt standout went undrafted despite finishing his college career as the NCAA's all-time career leader in 3-pointers made by a seven-footer.
During his first five NBA seasons, he spent a significant amount of time in the G League, working hard to stay ready for the opportunity to get back.
But in the past two years, Kornet became an important rotation piece on a championship contender, playing the most minutes as a pro than ever before.
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In 2023-24, he averaged 5.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks while clocking 15.6 minutes per game in 63 regular season appearances.
His presence was significant considering Kristaps Porzingis' injury history and Al Horford's age.
Now, the iconic champagne goggles rest on the Celtics center’s forehead, an accessory that’s become perhaps as synonymous with athletic glory as snapback hats in recent years.
But he says that soon after the celebrations come to an end, it’ll be time to give thanks.
"I want to try to go to mass tomorrow morning, says Kornet, who often emphasizes the importance of the Catholic faith in his life."
"I don't know if that's going to happen.
NBA Finals schedule
Thur 6 June - Game 1 - Dallas Mavericks 89-107 Boston Celtics
Sun 9 June - Game 2 - Dallas Mavericks 98-105 Boston Celtics
Wed 12 June - Game 3 - Boston Celtics 106-99 Dallas Mavericks
Fri 14 June - Game 4 - Boston Celtics 84-122 Dallas Mavericks
Mon 17 June - Game 5 - Dallas Mavericks 88-106 Boston Celtics
(Boston Celtics won 4-1)
"But I'll try to go soon or go to adoration or something like that and give thanks for the opportunity."
Kornet’s gratitude extends to his teammates — and the Boston franchise as a whole.
When asked what it feels like to be an NBA champion, the center focuses primarily on what it means to be a Celtic.
"It's honestly something I'm thankful for – to be able to be a part of the team," Kornet says as the Larry O’Brien Trophy slowly makes its way through the hands of Boston's players, coaches, and executives, some of which slow-dance with the 29-pound prize.
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"I know it's a lot bigger than myself. I'm just happy to be a part of it.
"Honestly, it's an accolade that our team acquired, and I was a part of that, and that's all that matters."