Friday’s showdown at Phillips Arena was the most anticipated Hawks game of the season. The Atlanta Hawks welcomed the Boston Celtics to town for the first time since their heated playoff series last spring.
It was also the first time Al Horford would face his former team. It was an emotional night for all involved. Horford received a mix of boos and cheers during his introduction, but he received mostly cheers during a video tribute after the first quarter.
The fan reaction made sense. I beat the “don’t boo Horford” drum all week, but I understand why fans would have such a negative reaction to seeing him in a Celtics uniform.