The Boston Celtics decisively completed their sweep of the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals on Monday night, with Jaylen Brown being recognized as the series’ most outstanding player, an accolade that caught him off guard.
Out of nine votes, Brown secured five to claim the Larry Bird Trophy, awarded to the MVP of the Eastern Conference Finals. When asked about his reaction to the win, Brown expressed his surprise.
“I wasn’t expecting it at all. I ain’t never win s—,” Brown said, via Jay King of The Athletic.
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Brown has been vocal about feeling underappreciated in the league.
He notably made a candid statement earlier in the series about being overlooked for this year’s All-Star selection. Following Monday’s victory, he also mentioned his belief that he deserved a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Team this year.
While Jayson Tatum is often spotlighted as the top player for the Celtics, Brown’s standout performance in the playoffs, where he averaged 29.8 points across the series against the Pacers, has silenced some critics who doubted his ability to perform in crucial games.
With Brown’s current form, the Celtics’ prospects in the NBA Finals look strong, regardless of whether they face the Dallas Mavericks or Minnesota Timberwolves.
The potential return of Kristaps Porzingis from a calf injury could further bolster Boston’s chances.
