In June, Celtics massive man Al Horford turned the primary participant from the Dominican Republic to win an NBA championship. This previous week, the 38-year-old introduced the Larry O’Brien Trophy to the island nation, considering he was simply there to have a good time the event along with his household and buddies.
Nonetheless, he was in for a shock.
Over the weekend, Horford was conferred the Order of Benefit of Duarte, Sanchez, and Mella within the diploma of Knight — the nation’s highest honor — from Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader.
Horford was not anticipating the honour.
“I knew I used to be going to come back meet the president, however I did not know I used to be gonna get the very best award for the nation,” Horford stated after assembly with the Domincan President. “So, very particular for me, very particular for my household. I really feel very proud proper now, very overwhelmed simply a whole lot of feelings. Very, very special occasion for me immediately.”
Horford spent the primary 14 years of his life in Puerto Plata, the capital of the Dominican Republic, earlier than migrating to america to pursue a basketball profession. After graduating from Grand Ledge Excessive Faculty in Michigan, he would go on to win two NCAA nationwide titles with the Florida Gators.
Throughout his 17-year NBA profession, Horford has made 5 All-Star groups, one All-NBA staff and one All-Defensive Crew. Whereas Horford’s achievements at all times made him a borderline Corridor of Fame candidate, many felt his elusive NBA championship win in January might have secured his entry to Springfield.
Horford can all however safe his Corridor of Fame case by profitable one other championship with the Celtics, who open the 2024-25 season as overwhelming favorites to repeat. The versatile massive man performed a key position in Boston defeating Dallas within the finals earlier this yr, beginning all 5 video games and averaging 7.0 factors, 6.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.2 steals.
