Porzingis Chapter: A Bloody Fight and a Resounding Comeback
BOSTON — Kristaps Porzingis hit the parquet floor on Wednesday night during a game against the Orlando Magic, quickly clutching the severe cut on his forehead that would later require five stitches. Despite the gash, the Boston Celtics center managed to shake off the trauma and check the extent of his injuries as blood streamed down his face.
Following a brutal elbow from Magic center Goga Bitadze while they jostled for a loose ball late in the third quarter of the Celtics’ 109-100 victory, Porzingis found himself revisiting a prior incident from early April when he had also been struck in the face. On that occasion, he embraced the spectacle, rallying the energy of the crowd at TD Garden.
“I love my WWE moments,” Porzingis stated after contributing 20 points and 10 rebounds to secure a 2-0 series lead in the first round. “I always enjoy engaging with the fans, and I knew that another hit and blood would excite the crowd.”
After the incident, Porzingis made his way toward the locker room, a towel pressed against his head as blood continued to flow. He soon emerged, smiling wide and playfully pointing at the cheering fans who rose to their feet. Payton Pritchard, a teammate, remarked, “He loves UFC, so this was perfect for him.”
Bitadze was subsequently assessed a flagrant foul, while Porzingis was cheered on by the Celtics fans as he returned to shoot free throws, his forehead bandaged and bloodstained. He soaked in the adoration, prompting the crowd to chant his name.
Coach Joe Mazzulla appreciated Porzingis’ resilience, commenting, “I like watching him bleed on the court because he still comes back and fulfills his role—even with injuries, he perseveres.” The moment embodied the physical intensity that has characterized the series thus far, with Celtics players refusing to back down in the face of aggressive play from the Magic.
Despite the chaotic atmosphere, Porzingis, alongside All-Star Jaylen Brown, who scored a game-high 36 points, emphasized their readiness for battle. “This is the playoffs, and we expect this kind of aggression,” Porzingis reflected. “We won’t be intimidated; we’ll retaliate.” After the game, Porzingis shared light-hearted thoughts with the media, sporting fresh stitches and a renewed perspective on his love for basketball.
