Ten years in Boston have produced a lot. Jaylen Brown, forever remembered as the MVP of the 2024 Finals — the Celtics’ first title in 16 years — arrived in Boston as a quiet yet hardworking young man, one for whom much was expected, but never quite so much. And of course, the time to bid farewell has come — he has been traded to the Philadelphia 76ers — and fans and officials have paid him homage to the point of handing him the keys to the city.
Thus it was. In an event organized by his brand, 741 Performance, and completely free of charge, Brown embraced a city he will always carry in his heart, and the city responded at Boston Common with a large attendance, cheers, banners such as “We’ll miss you a lot” and “Boston will always love you,” and the official recognition that he has been for the community much more than a basketball player. And thus, the love is mutual.
«When I arrived in this city, I said I would fight for it. I met a lot of wonderful people here. People who helped me in the community, who motivated me on my path. I want to thank the people who supported me even when I wasn’t doing it myself. I just want to thank Boston, the city, and I tell you that I love you», he emphasized with the microphone in hand.
As expected, Brown posed with fans, walked around the venue, and signed autographs on Celtics and 76ers jerseys and caps. He did what he has always done: putting others before himself in favor of his image as a basketball star.
Boston, Bowed to Jaylen Brown
Setting aside all sentimentality, Boston mayor Michelle Wu stepped onto the stage and asserted that she was there with her entire city council because Jaylen Brown deserved it, having been much more than basketball here in Boston.
«He has changed lives across Boston. That’s why there are so many people here. That’s why we are all devastated and still trying to process what is happening. We will never let you forget us, and we will never forget you. We feel very honored to be able to give you this farewell», she reiterated before presenting the player with a sign reading “Jaylen Brown Way” as a keepsake.
To close such an emotional ceremony, and on behalf of the state of Massachusetts, Representative Christopher Worrell presented Brown with the keys to the city of Boston — technically belonging to the 5th District of Suffolk, where Worrell serves — “for his incredible work in the African American and Latino communities.” Brown brought his hands to his head, astonished, and shortly after would post on social media: “God is crazy.”
