Everyone remembers when Kevin Garnett said the iconic words, “Anything is possible,” after the Celtics won the 2008 NBA Finals. They can repeat it as the Cs finally end their 16-year hunt for the Larry O’Brien trophy. Jaylen Brown, one of the chief architects of the dream project that turned into reality, received his crowning moment with the Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP trophy.
During the post-game press conference, Jaylen Brown was asked what it meant for him to lift the prestigious award named after the Celtics great.
Visibly emotional, Brown said, “To be honest, I can’t even put it into words. Just Bill Russell and what he’s meant for me through my Boston journey, and his spirit. You know, everything that he stood for, just for this to be the Bill Russell MVP Award, it just — I’ve got nothing, man. I don’t even know what to say. It’s unreal.”
Brown paid tribute to Bill Russell multiple times with customized sneakers throughout the season, the latest being during the Eastern Conference Finals.
Jaylen Brown averaged 20.8 points per game, recorded 5.4 rebounds, and dished out five assists. The former California swingman’s shooting of just below 45% paved the way for the Celtics to clinch the series. Brown came clutch throughout the playoffs with defining moments that tipped the balance in favor of his team.
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His journey to the top of the NBA was an 8-year story in the making, and his grandmother played a huge part in it. Following the win, it was only fitting for Brown to remember her in his moment of triumph.
Jaylen Brown Remembers His Grandma After NBA Finals Win
The camera panned towards Jaylen Brown’s mother after Adam Silver announced his name as the NBA Finals MVP. Her emotionally overwhelmed image was shown on the jumbotron as the crowd chanted, “MVP MVP!!” It was a fulfilling moment for the 27-year-old swingman, but it could’ve been sweeter if he had his grandmother, Dianne Varnado, by his side.
During the post-game presser, Jaylen talked about her as his voice choked with tears in his eyes. “I wish my grandmother was here with me to see this moment,” Brown said. He continued, “But I woke up from my pregame nap, and I had a dream, and my grandma was in the dream, and she gave me a hug this afternoon. I just knew everything was going to be all right.” He highlighted the pivotal role his grandma played in his life. ” I know she would be proud of me. Grandma, I know she was watching, and I love you so much,” said JB.
Dianne Varnado passed away in 2023, and since then, he has kept a picture of her on his Instagram display picture.
Brown’s care for his family and community is evident in his contribution to social causes. His grandma and Bill Russell would be proud of that.
