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Boston was awash in green on Friday as the city celebrated the Boston Celtics' 18th NBA championship with a grand parade. Enthusiastic fans lined the streets, cheering passionately as their heroes navigated the route on the iconic 'duck boats.' The Celtics, boasting the best championship record in the NBA, secured their latest title by defeating Luka Doncic's Dallas Mavericks 4-1. This victory marks the end of a 16-year championship drought for the storied franchise.

An Overwhelming Turnout

The city's public transportation system, even with extended rush hour protocols, couldn't handle the influx of fans. Many chose to walk several subway stops rather than remain packed like sardines in the overcrowded trains. Hours before the parade began, security barriers along the route were already occupied by fans eager to witness the procession from the front row. Street vendors thrived, offering discounted championship merchandise, while groups of teenagers skipping school and multi-generational families celebrated under the scorching sun, chanting "Let's go Celtics."

A Sea of Green and Joy

"I've been to a Patriots parade, but there's way more people here, and the atmosphere is more exciting. I got here at eight in the morning, and the streets were already full of green," shared Phil, a Boston native now retired in Florida who returns home every summer. Beers flowed early in the Irish pubs dotting Boston's central streets along the Charles River. Trucks and other vehicles blared their horns and spewed confetti, joining the traditional 'duck boats' that the Celtics use to celebrate with their fans.

Memorable Moments and Personal Touches

Derrick White, aboard one of the amphibious vehicles, held his son—the only reason he's missed any Celtics games. Veteran Dominican player Al Horford, donning a cowboy hat, celebrated with his daughter and his father, former basketball player Tito Horford, who never misses a game at TD Garden. Jaylen Brown rallied the fans, who chanted "MVP, MVP, MVP." Latvian player Kristaps Porzingis proudly displayed his country's red and white flag. Jayson Tatum showcased and kissed the championship trophy for the crowd. Some fans tossed small liquor bottles to the players, and Porzingis didn't hesitate to sample a few.

The Man Behind the Victory

Coach Joe Mazzulla, who took over the team unexpectedly after the previous coach's dismissal, was particularly proud. At just 35 years old, he has restored Boston's glory. "This is too exciting. It makes you feel like you're from here," said Damaris, an Ecuadorian mom dressed in a Tatum jersey, accompanied by her three young children in green shirts.

Editor: Emiliia Morozova