Paul Pierce, the legendary Boston Celtics player, shared his memorable encounters with two icons who left him truly starstruck. During his long NBA career, Pierce met numerous celebrities, but only actor Denzel Washington and former President Barack Obama made a lasting impression on him.
First Encounter: Denzel Washington
Pierce recounted his unforgettable meeting with Washington during the 2002 NBA All-Star Game in Philadelphia. While practicing layups, he was startled when Washington called him over from the stands. Pierce described the moment, saying, “Denzel was like, ‘Hey, Pierce, come here.’ I was like, ‘You talking to me?’” The actor was seated courtside, and Pierce seized the opportunity for a photo with the star.
Impact of Meeting Denzel
- Event: 2002 NBA All-Star Game
- Location: Philadelphia
- Notable Moment: Denzel Washington called him over from the stands
This encounter left a significant mark on Pierce, solidifying Washington as one of his top icons at the time.
Second Encounter: Barack Obama
Years later, after the Celtics’ victory in the 2008 NBA Championship, Pierce experienced a surprise meeting with Barack Obama. Under the pretense of visiting a museum, Pierce and his teammates were taken to an exclusive gathering. Former coach Doc Rivers had arranged the meeting without the players’ knowledge.
Meeting the President
- Event: 2008 Celtics Team Outing
- Location: Museum in Boston
- Notable Moment: Surprise meet and greet with Barack Obama
Pierce recounted walking into the museum and being shocked to find Obama waiting for them. “We hit the corner and Obama was right there. We were like, ‘Oh, damn,’” he said, reflecting on the excitement of the moment and the joy of taking pictures in a private setting with the former president.
Conclusion
Both encounters profoundly impacted Pierce. Even after years of fame and success, meeting Washington and Obama stands out as significant milestones in the NBA star’s life.
