Jrue Holiday achieved a significant milestone on Nov. 13 during the Boston Celtics’ 114-98 win over the New York Knicks. Holiday reached 15,000 career points, becoming one of only 147 players in NBA history to do so. He also joined a select group of 20 active players who have achieved the feat.
Holiday has put together an impressive first season with the Celtics, averaging 13.4 points and 5.3 assists on 45% shooting with 1.1 blocks per game. The two-way maestro has blocked more shots than any other point guard this season, and he is tied for first among all guards in rejections. Last year, Holiday made the NBA All-Defensive First Team, marking his fifth time with All-Defense honors.
After the Knicks win, Holiday spoke with Boston media about cracking 15,000 points. The 2021 NBA champion was not aware of his impending accomplishment before the game, and he only found out during the contest.
“It’s cool,” Holiday told Abby Chin of NBC Sports Boston. “It means that I’ve played long enough, I’ve played for a long time … It’s a cool accomplishment.”
NBA NEWS & STATS: Jrue Holiday, Boston Celtics Updates
Despite his special night, Holiday reiterated to Boston reporters that winning championships means more to him than anything else when it comes to career accolades. Holiday has fully bought into the Celtics’ team-first culture by sacrificing his usage and volume. He has taken 3.6 fewer shot attempts per game this season.
Holiday has done a lot of dirty work for Boston on both ends, serving as a jack of all trades with his two-way brilliance and ability to create for himself and others. He has also given the Celtics a surprising boost on the glass with a career-high 7.5 rebounds per game, fueled by 2.0 offensive boards per game. Holiday’s refreshing contributions have helped Boston to lead the league in team rebounds per game.
In his on-court interview, All-NBA superstar Jayson Tatum praised Holiday for the impact he has already had on the Celtics.
“He’s meant everything,” Tatum said. “His IQ, the way he puts pressure on the ball. He’s one of the best defenders in the league. Competes, make the right plays … and he can score with the best of them. I’m glad I don’t have to play against him no more.”
NBA NEWS & STATS: Jrue Holiday, Boston Celtics Updates
Two nights after the Knicks game, Holiday dropped 18 points and 10 rebounds in a 117-107 win over the Philadelphia 76ers. The 9-2 Celtics will look to continue their hot start to the season when they visit the Toronto Raptors next. Boston has already notched one win over their division rivals this season.
