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Georges Niang On Celtics Fans: ‘You Took The Unicorn And Got A Minivan With Scratches’

Originally posted on Hoops Wire | By Sam Amico | Last updated Jul 23, 2025 10:17 PM ET

The Boston Celtics added another floor spacer when they acquired forward Georges Niang in the trade that sent Kristaps Porzingis to the Hawks. But as Niang tells it, the reception in Boston hasn’t exactly been warm.

“I then get traded for Kristaps Porzingis — which, you know how tough Boston fans are,” Niang said during an appearance on The OGs podcast, via HoopsRumors. “They don’t give a (expletive) if I’m from Boston or not. ‘You just took our Unicorn and replaced it with a Minivan. Get the (expletive) outta here.’ I’m like public enemy No. 1. They’re like, ‘What is this? This ain’t shiny. It’s got scratches on it, man.’”

Some of the resentment may stem from a 2023 playoff incident in which Niang, then with the Cavaliers, grabbed Celtics star Jaylen Brown’s knee from the bench. That clip resurfaced after the trade. Others have speculated it’s about Niang’s $8.2 million expiring contract and whether Boston plans to keep him around.

“You don’t want to be in Boston losing, that’s for sure,” Niang added. “What can I do this summer? Can I come in in the best shape, mentor, learn, and figure out how to win the day — and then win games.”

Celtics Urged to Pass on Simmons

Boston has been linked to free agent Ben Simmons, but not everyone thinks it’s a good idea. Matt Vautour of MassLive wrote that the Celtics would be better off exploring other options.

Vautour noted that Simmons still brings some upside, but warned that the team can’t count on him to stay healthy. Along with that, things didn’t exactly work out for Simmons in Philadelphia or Brooklyn, either, Vautour opined.

Bassey Drawing Interest From Overseas

Big man Charles Bassey, who made a solid impression during three Summer League games with Boston, is on the radar of Italian club Virtus Bologna, per HoopsRumors.

Bassey could still be in the mix for a training camp invite, but no decision has been made as the Celtics continue to evaluate their frontcourt depth.