BOSTON — Celtics fans made sure to show [Luke Kornet](https://www.masslive.com/celtics/2026/01/former-celtics-center-explains-decision-to-leave-boston-for-spurs.html) some love starting with pregame introductions then all the way to his welcome back video Saturday. Kornet was back in Boston for the first time since signing with the Spurs over the summer. [He was also at the Celtics’ win over the Raptors on Friday](https://www.masslive.com/celtics/2026/01/former-celtics-center-makes-surprise-visit-to-garden-before-return.html), getting a hero’s welcome.
The Celtics showed Kornet’s welcome back video after the end of the first quarter in their game against the Spurs. There were plenty of memorable moments from Kornet’s time in Boston, including winning the 2024 NBA title.
Here’s the video in its entirety from TD Garden:
Kornet played with the Celtics from 2021-25. He was acquired in the Daniel Theis trade back in March 2021. He was a lightly-used reserve big man back then, looking to make his mark on the league. Kornet started the 2021-22 season with the Maine Celtics in the G League.
But Kornet was one of the Celtics’ great developmental stories over the past few seasons. As he showed during the playoffs last year, he’s a legit reserve big man. That wasn’t always the case during his time in Boston. But Kornet became a fan favorite with his play and humor off the court. It’s why C’s fans showered him with “Luke” chants during the welcome back video.
Kornet signed a four-year contract with the Spurs over the summer, getting the first big payday of his career. He’s been a stellar addition for San Antonio, especially with Victor Wembanyama sidelined with injuries. And as seen Saturday in Boston, he’ll always be welcomed warmly by Celtics fans.