Celtics Star Reportedly Makes Decision on Retirement After Loss to Knicks

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated May 23, 2025 6:46 PM ET

The Boston Celtics entered the 2024-25 NBA season with aspirations of securing back-to-back championships for the first time since 1969. They concluded the regular season with a 61-21 record, clinching the top spot in the Atlantic Division and the second seed in the Eastern Conference. In the playoffs, the Celtics defeated the Orlando Magic in five games during the first round but were eliminated in the Eastern Conference Semifinals by the New York Knicks.

The postseason exit has led to uncertainties surrounding the Celtics as they approach the offseason. Key decisions loom regarding roster adjustments and the future of veteran players. One of the main talking points has been the future of Al Horford, the 38-year-old center who has been a significant presence for the team.

However, according to a new report published by ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel, Horford has decided against retirement, and plans on returning to the Celtics for what would be his 19th NBA season.

"Al Horford [and Luke Kornet] will both be unrestricted free agents this summer, and both players hold high interest in returning to Boston," Siegel wrote. "While he will be 39 years young on June 3, Horford still intends on playing for the Celtics in what would be his 19th year during the 2025-26 season."

Al Horford will not be retiring, according to @BrettSiegelNBA

“Horford still intends on playing for the Celtics in what would be his 19th year during the 2025-26 season” pic.twitter.com/ZGOKGDkXUA
— CelticsUnite (@CelticsUnite18) May 23, 2025

Horford's tenure with the Celtics has been marked by consistent contributions on both ends of the court. Over his career with Boston, he has averaged 11.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in 465 games. He played a key role off the bench during the Celtics' championship run last season, and could be asked to step up next season in the absence of Tatum.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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