Context:

A farewell celebration for Jaylen Brown in Boston culminated in the city awarding him a key to the city and a street sign tribute, marking the end of his decade with the Celtics after his trade to the 76ers. The event blended community impact with fanfare, featuring performances and Brown’s reflective remarks about his decade in Boston. State and city officials highlighted his work beyond basketball, while fans relished a rare, high-visibility send-off before he returns as an opponent. The moment underscores Brown’s lasting ties to Boston and sets the stage for his return to TD Garden in a future matchup.

Dive Deeper:

• Brown was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers on July 1, ending a 10-year run with the Celtics, during which he helped win the 2024 NBA Finals and earned Finals MVP honors.

• The farewell was organized by Brown's brand 741 Performance and partners, culminating in the '741 Frequency Fest' on Boston Common from 2 to 7 p.m. ET on Aug. 7, free and open to all.

• Massachusetts presented Brown with a key to the city, and Boston officials including Mayor Michelle Wu celebrated his community work across schools, classrooms, and parks.

• A street sign reading 'Jaylen Brown Way' was presented as a lasting memento, underscoring the city’s appreciation.

• The event featured performances by Lil Jon, Lil Baby, and A$AP Ferg, with Brown and Ferg performing their song 'Just Do It' on stage; the Larry O’Brien Trophy also made an appearance among attendees.

• Brown streamed the event on Twitch for nearly two-and-a-half hours, estimating around 10,000 attendees and expressing gratitude to the city and fans, including a fond reflection on his decade in Boston.

• He is slated to return to Boston as an opponent on Jan. 21 when the 76ers visit the Celtics, promising a particular atmosphere following the farewell.