Luka Garza’s Work Ethic Shines Bright in Celtics’ Dominance
Luka Garza has carved a niche for himself in a crowded Boston Celtics roster, despite averaging just over 14 minutes per game in his inaugural season. His relentless work ethic has not gone unnoticed, particularly by head coach Joe Mazzulla. After the Celtics’ commanding 131-95 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, Mazzulla praised Garza’s recent performances, stating, “He’s been good, and I think the last three games, he’s played some inspired basketball.”
Inspired Basketball Takes Center Stage
Mazzulla emphasized Garza’s unique ability to elevate his game, noting, “He has a special gift to be able to play just harder than everybody else on the floor.” This determination is crucial for the Celtics as they navigate a competitive landscape. Garza’s knack for snagging rebounds, even in traffic, showcases his tenacity. “I think he got one (rebound) over two, three people there. So he has the ability to kind of do that for us, and he’s been good. He just has to keep playing inspired basketball,” Mazzulla added.
Garza’s Impressive Contributions
Garza’s contributions have been significant in recent outings. In the game against the Grizzlies, he recorded 14 points and seven rebounds, following that up with a solid 13-point performance in a win over the Los Angeles Clippers. These numbers reflect not only his scoring ability but also his growing confidence on the court.
A Fan’s Journey to the NBA
Beyond the stats, Garza’s story is one of dedication and aspiration. The young forward, who grew up as a Celtics fan, has put in a staggering amount of work to reach this level. Last season, he logged an astounding 12,000 more practice shots than any other player in the NBA. His father, Frank, instilled in him the importance of patience and perseverance. “I just had to believe someone was paying attention. And of course, it was Brad Stevens,” he recalled, reflecting on his journey to the NBA.
As Garza continues to develop under the bright lights of Boston, his relentless approach to the game is likely to keep him in the spotlight, contributing to a Celtics team that is looking to make a deep playoff run.
