10 readers share the best part of being a Celtics fan right now

Readers Say

“Win or lose, we are always there to cheer on the Celtics.”

The Celtics have their eye on the prize — a record 18th NBA championship win — as they look to take down the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

After besting the Cavaliers 109-102 Monday night, the Celtics rose to 3-1 in the series and are now looking to clinch the semifinal win Wednesday at TD Garden. If the Celtics take 4 games, they will advance to the Conference final for the third year in a row, playing either the Indiana Pacers or New York Knicks.

The energy in the Garden Wednesday night should be nothing short of electric — in WalletHub’s recent study on the best and worst cities for basketball fans, Boston was ranked second for best basketball cities and first in NBA fan engagement.

As the Celtics progress farther into the semifinals, we asked readers to share what the best part of being a fan of the team is. From championing the Celtics’ 18th O’Brien Trophy to supporting star players and recognizing their energy both on and off the field, readers have found a lot to appreciate about their team this season.

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What readers love about being a Celtics fan

Responses have been lightly edited for length and clarity.

“As fans, we have unrealistic expectations based on the large number of blow-out wins we’ve seen this season, that the team is going to execute at that level every night. We know that’s just not realistic, but we also know that on any given night 3s will fall like a spring rainstorm; Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White or Kristaps Porzingis can go for 40+; and the Cs can blow out anybody. Not knowing when/if that will happen has made this season somewhat frustrating but also extremely exciting! Go Cs! #18!”

— Rob, Hopkinton

“The Celtics have the deepest bench of any Celtics team I can remember since I started following them during the Larry Bird era. There are about 10 players on the team who could be bona fide starters, which has helped them tremendously when players from the starting 5 are injured.”

— Jeff, Natick

“Great balance of offense and defense = Celtics brand of basketball = Celtic pride.”

— Michael P., Manila, Philippines

“Positive energy and unconditional love.”

— Ty, Foxborough

“Watching unheralded players such as Derrick White, Sam Hauser, and Luke Kornet improve and develop.”

— Edward J., Fort Myers, Fla.

“The greatness of this core along the pursuit to finally get over the hump and break the tie with the Lakers for the most rings.”

— Steve, Medford

“For me it’s Payton Pritchard, love his energy and confidence.”

— Ed A., Santa Fe, N.M.

“We finally got tickets to a playoff game (we have been on the waitlist for season tickets) we had so much fun! Unfortunately we got stuck in traffic and lost out on a chance to possibly get an autograph! It was well worth the traffic, as we were 5 rows back! Win or lose, we are always there to cheer on the Celtics! We probably have as much Celtics clothing as the players.”

— Patricia G.

“How about when the Celtics go on the road and take over the opposing team’s arena! #CelticPride”

— Tim B.

“Selfless team play and team cohesiveness and love for one another, very smart basketball that is much fun to watch – as long as it’s the Celtics! Please #18!”

— Guido, Canton