Celtics fans give Doc Rivers standing ovation (Video) ~ Holdout Sports

Los Angeles Clippers head coach Doc Rivers received a standing ovation from Boston Celtics fans at the TD Garden Wednesday night as he returned to Boston for the first time since leaving the Celtics at the end of last season.

Rivers coached the Celtics for 9 seasons, highlighted by winning the NBA Championship in 2008. Rivers was under contract to coach the Celtics for another three years when he negotiated a deal to be released from his contract so that he could become coach of the Clippers.

Given the acrimonious circumstances under which Rivers left, it would have been understandable for some Celtics fans to have some hard feelings. However, the fans in attendance showed nothing but class and respect towards Rivers, cheering him during pregame warmups and especially during the pregame introductions.

Rivers was able to keep enough composure throughout the emotional night to help lead the Clippers to a 96-88 victory.

Video via NBA. H/T NYDN.

About Michael James

Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports) and like Holdout Sports on Facebook.