Former Atlanta Hawks star Al Horford returned to Atlanta on Friday night for the first time since joining the Celtics on a five-year deal.
Horford, who spent nine seasons with the Hawks organization, became an integral part of basketball in Atlanta and instantly transitioned into a fan favorite during his stay. Nonetheless, that didn’t stop some Hawks fans from relentlessly booing Horford in his return last evening.
“They weren’t expected, but it is what it is,” Horford said (via George Henry of the Associated Press). “I know there’s a lot of fans out there that appreciated my time here, and I appreciate them.”
Horford, in the Celtics’ 103-101 victory, was booed every time he touched the ball and during pre-game introductions. It has become a common theme in today’s NBA for fans to shower former players with boos, but this situation just seemed different.
The Hawks sealed their fate by inking Dwight Howard to a deal before managing Horford. They had interest in retaining Horford, but the interest wasn’t as mutually significant as before. Horford then chose to join forces with the Celtics, led by Isaiah Thomas.
Thomas, who nailed the game-winner to seal Friday’s game, believed Atlanta fans acted disrespectfully.
“You don’t boo a guy like that,” Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas said after scoring 28 points. “You’re not turning down money like that. None of them people that are booing are turning down that money, so he went to a situation he thought may be a little better.
“Like I said, a guy like that, with that type of character, you can’t boo him. That’s disrespectful.”
Horford has moved on from his days with the Hawks, and is now focused on helping this Celtics team stay competitive in the Eastern Conference. For Horford, his transition into Brad Steven’s Celtics has been smooth as could be.
“I think for me individually it was the right decision,” Horford said. “It takes time to adjust to a new team, a new city and everything, but my teammates and coach have made my transition very easy.”
