The NBA appears to be shifting away from the Super Team era, signaling a change in times. While Kevin Durant and LeBron James have often been associated with the formation of Superteams, there was one team that laid the groundwork before them. The 2008 Boston Celtics emerged as the first notable “new” Superteam, despite previous instances in history.
During their pursuit of Kevin Garnett, the Celtics encountered an unexpected and comical incident on the golf course, which ultimately played a role in shaping their championship aspirations. This incident, affectionately dubbed the “Cinnabon Quest,” shed light on the relentless determination of the team’s management.
In the early stages, the Celtics faced initial rejection in their efforts to acquire Garnett, a highly sought-after player at the time. However, this setback didn’t deter them. They were determined to form a formidable Superteam, capable of contending for an NBA title.
During the summer of 2007, Boston’s front office executives embarked on a mission to convince Garnett to join their ranks. In a surprising turn of events, they found themselves sharing a golf course with the Minnesota Timberwolves’ vice president of basketball operations, Kevin McHale, who held the key to Garnett’s fate.
While engaging in a friendly game of golf, Danny Ainge, the Celtics’ general manager, seized the opportunity to engage in a casual conversation with McHale. Unbeknownst to McHale, Ainge’s intention was to persuade him to consider trading Garnett to Boston.
As fate would have it, amidst the golf outing, Ainge noticed a Cinnabon bakery nearby. Capitalizing on the moment, he made a whimsical comment to McHale, jokingly suggesting that if he agreed to the trade, he would treat him to a Cinnabon. This lighthearted banter became a symbol of their unusual encounter and was later fondly referred to as the “Cinnabon Quest.”
Although seemingly insignificant, this incident offered a glimpse into the relentless pursuit of the Celtics’ management. It demonstrated their willingness to explore unconventional avenues in order to secure Garnett’s services.
Ultimately, Ainge’s persistence paid off, as the Timberwolves eventually agreed to the trade. The Boston Celtics had successfully assembled their Superteam, consisting of Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen.
The formation of the 2008 Boston Celtics Superteam ushered in a new era in the NBA. They went on to achieve remarkable success, capturing the NBA championship that season and solidifying their place in basketball history.
While the NBA landscape continues to evolve, with teams now focusing on building balanced rosters rather than relying solely on star power, the legacy of the 2008 Boston Celtics remains a significant chapter in the league’s history. Their “Cinnabon Quest” serves as a reminder of the determination and creativity displayed by teams in their quest for greatness.
