Celtics Sign Forward Norris Amid NBA Playoff Aspirations

BOSTON — The Boston Celtics announced Tuesday the signing of forward Norris, who reluctantly left his G League commitments with the Memphis Hustle to join the team.

The 24-year-old, who played his final high school season at Brewster Academy in nearby New Hampshire, expressed excitement about joining the Celtics, stating, “They seem like a really good group as a team. Just try to buy into the team, buy into the organization. Do what I can to help the team win.”

Norris brings valuable experience to the Celtics after a productive stint in the G League, where he averaged 17.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and shot 38.5% from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor aligns perfectly with the Celtics’ offensive strategy, making his addition crucial as they aim for a championship.

“Stretching the floor,” Norris explained. “I shoot the ball really well from 3. So spacing the floor, having those guys be able to attack in iso. I know we got a lot of scorers on this team, so just being able to stretch the floor. I play defense, as well.”

As a two-way contract player, Norris will have opportunities not only with the Celtics but also with their G League affiliate, the Maine Celtics. His addition fills the void left by Louis Watson, who was released following a year of inconsistent performance.

The Celtics have established a solid track record with their two-way contracts, developing players like Sam Hauser and Neemias Queta into valuable roster contributors. “Norris joins that trend, bringing height and sharpshooting to the wing position,” said a Celtics spokesperson.

Before embarking on his professional career, Norris’s college journey traversed from the Oregon Ducks for his freshman year to City College of San Francisco, and finally to UC Santa Barbara, where he was named second-team All-Big West in 2023. His consistent performance in college reflects the potential the Celtics see in him.

Despite going undrafted in 2023, Norris’s experience with G League teams and international play in Turkey has shaped him into a competitive player ready for the NBA stage.

“I’m just really excited to grow and work with the guys here,” Norris said. “Learning from the vets here, learning from the coaches here.”

Meanwhile, the Celtics continue to bolster their roster with a focus on deep playoff runs. Jaylen Brown, emerging as the team’s vocal leader, acknowledged the tough competition they expect in the postseason, particularly from teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers, with whom they faced off recently.

<p“Looking forward to the next time we see them,” Brown remarked after a 123-116 loss, hinting at the possibility of a playoff rematch. The team has proven resilient despite recent setbacks, and the addition of Norris adds depth to their already formidable lineup.

“Regardless of who was sitting out, we should have won this game,” Brown stated, emphasizing the team’s need to capitalize on opportunities as they approach the season’s critical juncture.

For Norris, the challenge ahead involves immersing himself in a winning culture while making his mark as a reliable player. “Staying consistent every day,” he said. “Doing whatever they need me to do, getting better, working on my game every day.”