The Boston Celtics have been so good this season that it's almost easy to overlook the fact that they've been doing what they've been doing without starting center Robert Williams in the mix. Well, that all changed on Friday as the 25-year-old made his much-awaited season debut after finally recovering from offseason surgery.

Williams took the court for the first time this season on Friday against the Orlando Magic. He checked in with seven minutes remaining in the first quarter and the adoring home crowd gave Williams an epic ovation:

Even the Celtics players on the bench were all standing up and clapping as Williams was subbed in. This speaks volumes of how important this man is for the Celtics and how happy his teammates are to have him back. The fans clearly love him as well.

Robert Williams tried his best to stay cool, but he couldn't help but give off a smile as the fans applauded his entrance. He probably had goosebumps after hearing that rousing ovation.

Last season, Williams averaged 10.0 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 2.2 blocks per game. He's no superstar, but there's no denying that he is an integral part of this group. What Robert Williams does also extends beyond the box score, and the intensity he brings to the table is one of his biggest assets.

Article Continues Below
Related Boston Celtics News
Jrue Holiday photoshopped in Kings jersey.
Kings offseason trade proposal for Jrue Holiday amid Celtics’ financial concernsBailey Bassett ·
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) during game three of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden.
NBA awards voter reveals $315M Jayson Tatum reason for giving up voteJulian Ojeda ¡
The Boston Celtics bench in the final seconds of the game against the Sacramento Kings at TD Garden.
5 early Boston Celtics NBA free agency targets in 2025 offseasonRohan Brahmbhatt ¡
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) and Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) talk after their game at TD Garden.
Damian Lillard shares photo with Celtics’ Jayson Tatum amid Achilles rehabsZachary Howell ·
Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) and forward Jayson Tatum (0) warm up before game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Orlando Magic at TD Garden.
NBA rumors: Shams promises Celtics trades as part of ‘craziest offseason ever’Jackson Stone ·
Kristaps Porzingis playing for the Wizards.
Wizards trade proposal for Kristaps Porzingis in offseason if Celtics shed salaryBailey Bassett ¡

With Williams back in the mix, the Celtics are just going to get better from here on out. They already have the best record in the entire NBA, and they're hoping to keep it that way for the rest of the way.

 

 

Â