MEXICO CITY – Former Boston Celtics player Javonte Green has embraced a diverse basketball journey since departing Boston in 2021. His path has led him to the Chicago Bulls, a stint in the G League, and ultimately to the Detroit Pistons, who participated in this year’s NBA Mexico Game. The Pistons faced off against the Dallas Mavericks, securing a 122-110 victory.
Ahead of the game, Green spoke with the Celtics Wire about his close bond with injured Celtics star Jayson Tatum and reflected on his return to Mexico City. This was not his first visit, as he had previously played there with the Santa Cruz Warriors while competing against the local G League team, the Capitanes. “This is my second time,” he noted, reminiscing about his time in the city.
Following an open practice with both the Pistons and Mavericks, Green discussed the unique challenges posed by the city’s high altitude of 2,240 meters (7,350 feet), which exceeds that of Denver, the NBA city with the highest elevation. “The last time I played here, it was kind of tough,” he remarked, highlighting the physical demands on players due to the elevation. “They have to go through the same thing we have to go through, so it’ll be okay.”
Green’s observations proved insightful as the Pistons rallied to secure the win with a strong finish in the fourth quarter. In his previous G League match against the Capitanes, they had also claimed victory, hinting that despite the altitude challenges, both teams could adapt to the conditions.
As Detroit and their fans celebrated the victory in Mexico City, it was a testament not only to the resilience of the players but also to the growing international appeal of basketball, uniting fans and players from different backgrounds and locales.