After 10 years in Boston, star swingman Jaylen Brown has reached the end of his tenure with the Celtics. Going forward, he’ll be suiting up for the Philadelphia 76ers, and it’s a reality he’s still getting used to.
Still, Brown has at least processed the trade enough to make an official statement to his fans. The message came via his social media on Thursday, and began with Brown (who won a title with the Celtics in 2024) expressing gratitude for those who made his journey possible.
“First and foremost, thank you to the Most High, even in the midst of adversity,” wrote Brown in a statement this week. “I’m here with gratitude. I’m still processing how this all went down. I’m excited and disappointed at the same time. I earned my respect from this city. I never asked for shortcuts or special treatment. I simply showed up every day, put my head down, and accepted every challenge.”
Things did not end well between Brown and the Celtics. While Jaylen did not make any official trade demands, things got awkward internally as the Celtics were caught shopping him in trade talks. Still, he holds his time there in high regard, and moving on will not be easy after achieving so much success. No matter what happens, Brown will always have respect for Celtics fans and the native Bostonians who frequently showed their support.
“The relationships I built here, the battles we fought together, the championship we brought to this city, and the connection I shared with the fans, I’ll carry on with me. Saying goodbye isn’t easy when you’ve invested your heart into something. I’m big on respect, and actions speak louder than words. To the people of Boston, thank you. To the community I built here: I love you, and to the shiftaz we are locked in for life.”
As for what’s ahead, Brown is optimistic about being competitive on a roster with Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and V.J. Edgecombe. Together, he believes the 76ers can challenge for a top spot in the East as long as everyone stays healthy. Regardless, the vibes are immaculate in Philly right now, and Brown wants to soak in the excitement as he prepares to capitalize on this new opportunity.
“I’m excited for what’s ahead and grateful for the opportunity to join Philadelphia. Every city has its own identity, its own passion, and its own expectation. I respect that, and I’m looking forward to earning that respect the only way I know how – through the work.”
Just a few months ago, it seemed unlikely that Jaylen Brown would leave the Celtics. With averages of 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game on 47.7% shooting and 34.7% shooting, he was coming off the best season of his career, and he was still in his prime at 29 years old. So to trade him for an aging Paul George and two first-round picks shows just how low his value has become.
Internally, it’s possible that the relationship between Brown and the Celtics was beyond repair, but he did not show any signs of animosity in his latest statement. Even after all the drama, he kept things professional and expressed gratitude to the team that launched his career.
