BOSTON - Former Celtics guard Evan Turner, who hadn’t picked up a basketball in nearly three years, found himself back in the spotlight at the Celtics Causeway Classic. This fan-favorite event at TD Garden, ahead of the Celtics' clash with the Timberwolves, featured Turner in a 3-point contest.
"It's great to be back," Turner shared from the TD Garden press room. "Being in Boston is always special.
When they reached out, I was all in. I might not be at the top of the list, but I'm here, and Boston is always a blast."
Turner, with his trademark humor, joked about being called a "Celtics legend" among NBA greats like Cedric Maxwell and Paul Pierce. Despite feeling like the odd man out, he didn't hold back on praising others, especially his friend and Celtics star Jayson Tatum.
Back in the 2020-21 NBA "Bubble" season, Turner served as a Celtics assistant coach and worked closely with Tatum. Their bond grew strong, and Turner couldn't be happier to see Tatum back in action.
"Tatum's return means everything," Turner told Celtics Wire. "The game needs him. He's a face of this generation, and following his journey has been incredible."
After an Achilles injury sidelined Tatum for the first 62 games of the 2025-26 season, he made a triumphant return on March 6 to roaring cheers. Since then, the Celtics have gone 6-1 with him on the court.
"Everyone loves a comeback story," Turner reflected. "I've always admired him as a player and a person, and his current form is truly impressive."
Turner recalled Tatum's dedication, sharing a memory from his coaching days. "Jayson was lifting after games," he remembered.
"Soon, more players started staying later to lift. His work ethic was contagious."
This dedication highlights the Celtics' winning culture, which has been a constant. Despite missing Tatum for much of the season, the team boasts a 47-23 record.
"Everyone's committed to winning a championship," Turner said of the current roster.
Though a championship seemed unlikely in the offseason, the Celtics are now contenders, fueled by Tatum's comeback as they face the Timberwolves and gear up for the playoffs.
"When people doubted us, the team embraced it," Turner noted. "We focused, improved, and now we're playing the way we should."
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