DETROIT — Jaylen Brown was rewarded Monday for what’s been a stellar season. He was named an All-Star starter for the first time in his career, getting the nod alongside some of the East’s best.
Brown is averaging a career-high 29.7 points per game this season, leading the upstart Celtics to second place in the East standings. While Brown has always believed he’s one of the league’s best, he’s now getting an opportunity to show just that. He reacted to the All-Star nod after the Celtics’ loss to the Pistons on Monday.
“I’m a very confident guy,” Brown said. “So I don’t allow people to tell me what my validation is. I’ve always felt like I was better than a lot of these guys, but it doesn’t come down to what I think and feel. It comes down to media, fan vote, all that type of stuff. So, it could go any direction. I’m just grateful because I know it means a lot to my support group. They knew the type of talent I was from Day 1 and it means a lot to them to see me in these spaces, so shoutout to them.”
Brown played like he was looking to make a statement Monday in Detroit, putting up a game-high 32 points. It wasn’t an efficient night for Brown, but it was a struggle scoring the ball for both sides. He missed the potential game-winning bucket at the buzzer, though the Celtics were in the game largely because of his play. Brown also guarded fellow All-Star starter Cade Cunningham on multiple possessions.
This season is the first time Brown has led his own team. He’s gotten the green light to let shots fly — his midrange jumper has been especially deadly this year. The C’s have shown they have enough talent even without Jayson Tatum, who looks like he could be making his return soon.
Regardless, Brown is getting his flowers and acknowledgement from across the NBA. While the C’s star has often felt like he doesn’t get enough individual accolades, they’re starting to come for him.
“I woke up from a nap and had some text messages from loved ones and family,” Brown said. “I think that’s who it matters most for: my support group. I think it means a lot to them to see me celebrated in that light. But I’ve always felt like regardless of what people may think or whatever that I’ve been one of the better players in this game. Just now I’ve gotten the opportunity to show it a little more.”