Wednesday was a bittersweet day for the Celtics. The Cs wrapped up the series against the Heat with a 118-84 win, which means that it was the final game for the voice of the Celtics, Mike Gorman.
The NBA only allows broadcasting rights to the local broadcasters for round one, so from round two, there will be no Boston-based broadcasting. With that in mind, after 43 years on the commentary desk, Mike Gorman finally decided to take off the headphones once and for all. The TD Garden gave the legendary commentator a standing ovation as the crowd in attendance poured in their appreciation and admiration for the 76-year-old.
In a tribute footage played at the venue, many of the Celtics legends of the past congratulated the veteran for his remarkable career that touched the lives of millions with his voice. In 1981, Gorman created one of the longest-tenured partnerships in sports commentary alongside the late Tom Heinsohn, who passed away in 2020. During his time at the desk, Gorman called numerous memorable moments, and he disclosed which one was his favorite among them.
Mike Gorman’s Favorite Playoff Memory
Before the game 5, Mike Gorman sat with Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated to discuss everything related to his beloved Celtics. When asked about his favorite playoff memory, Mike selected the “Bird stole the ball” moment from the 1987 Eastern Conference Finals game 5.
On May 26, 1987, the Celtics faced the Pistons in game 5 of the series, which was tied 2-2. In the closing seconds of the game, Isiah Thomas strangely tried to make a quick pass after the ball went out of bounds. Keeping the ball would’ve secured the game for the Pistons, but Thomas’s pass was intercepted by Larry Bird, who set up Dennis Johnson to score, and the Boston team celebrated a 108-107 win.
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Apart from revealing his favorite playoff moment, Gorman also expressed his resentment towards the NBA for depriving local broadcasters of the playoffs. In his final game at the commentary desk, Gorman received the best possible gift from the Celtics as they closed the series while giving the commentator a chance to say his final “Got it” of his career.