Watch Jrue Holiday, Robert Williams get hero’s welcome in return to Boston

Jrue Holiday and Robert Williams III they received a hero’s welcome with their return to Boston during the Portland Trail Blazers vs. Celtics match on Monday evening.

Holiday represented the Celtics for two seasons from 2023 to 2025 as their starting point guard. He played a big role in helping the Celtics reach the top of the mountain by winning Banner 18 after defeating the Dallas Mavericks in the 2024 NBA Finals.

Holiday was incredible with his perimeter defense, making the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2024. He averaged 11.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, 4.4 assists and one steal per game over 131 total appearances.

As for Williams, he wore a Celtics uniform from 2018 to 2023. He rose through the ranks before accepting his starting center duties, excelling as a lob threat and shot-blocking maestro.

Williams helped Boston to their first NBA Finals appearance since 2010 as they reached the 2022 NBA Finals. His efforts landed him on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in the process. In a total of 209 appearances, he scored 7.3 points and 6.9 rebounds per contest.

Both players had memorable moments during their time with the franchise, earning the respect of many Boston fans even if they haven’t played with them for a long time. The Celtics showed their tribute video for holidays after the first quarter.

Celtics tribute video for Jrue Holiday before the second quarter 🥹

(via @danield1214) pic.twitter.com/9P4cpBpvVd

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 27, 2026

What awaits Jrue Holiday, Blazers

Jrue Holiday and Robert Williams III will look back fondly on their time with the Celtics. Meanwhile, they have remained effective players with the Blazers this season.

Holliday was injured earlier in the season, but has since returned to the rotation as a starter. In 18 appearances, he is averaging 15.4 points, 7.1 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game. As for Williams, he has been productive off the bench with six points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game over 31 contests.

Portland is 23-23 on the season, holding onto ninth place in the Western Conference standings. They are above the Los Angeles Clippers and Memphis Grizzlies while trailing the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves.

After the match against the Celtics, the Blazers will prepare for their next competition. They remain on the road as they face the Washington Wizards on January 27th at 7pm ET.