Phil Pressey spent two years as a player with the Boston Celtics and averaged 3.1 points and 2.9 assists per game in 13.5 minutes of action. His value to the team, however, went beyond the box score.
In December, on an episode of View from the Rafters, Pressey spoke highly of Brad Stevens, his former Celtics head coach and current President of Basketball Operations, and the contagious energy he brings to the team. He emphasized the impact Stevens had on his career and the culture he continues to foster within the organization.
“He has an ability to give you confidence. As a player, he gave me confidence, and now as a coach, he gives me confidence. It doesn’t matter if you’re the number one on the team or the number eighteenth. He sees that everybody has a part, everybody has a role. That’s something that I don’t take for granted. He talks about energy, and energy is contagious.”
Phil Pressey Becomes Maine Celtics' New Head Coach
Pressey could not bring a championship to Boston as a player, but his deep understanding of the game and ability to connect with players made him a natural fit for a coaching role. Ahead of the Celtics’ 2023 championship run, he was brought back into the fold as the team’s player enhancement coach, working behind the scenes to help develop talent and maintain the team’s competitive edge.
Now, Pressey is tasked with leading the Celtics’ G-League team, the Maine Celtics, per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
It’s a significant step forward, reflecting both the trust the organization has in him and his potential to shape future NBA talent. The Maine Celtics have been consistent contenders in recent years, reaching the G-League playoffs for three straight seasons, with two Eastern Conference finals appearances. However, they have yet to get over the hump and win a championship.
With Pressey as the head coach, the team gains a leader who not only understands the Celtics’ culture but also brings firsthand experience as an NBA player and as a coach. His understanding of the team, along with his ability to help players improve, could be the missing piece that helps Maine win its first G-League championship.