PROVIDENCE — As he walked down the steps of the Rhode Island State Capitol, Joe Mazzulla cradled the Larry O’Brien trophy, with Queen’s “We are the Champions” blasting in the background.
On paper, Tuesday morning’s objective was simple: for the Celtics organization to celebrate Banner 18 with lawmakers and locals from the state of Rhode Island, a gathering that was initiated by Governor Dan McKee.
In reality, it was a celebration of Joe Mazzulla and the power of community.
As Mazzulla made his way toward a crowd of legislators, he was accompanied by Governor McKee, who rocked a “Whatever it takes” Celtics T-shirt, and Celtics co-owner Steve Pagliuca.