The Boston Celtics capped a night of celebration by opening the defense of their National Basketball Association crown with a rousing 90-85 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday.
In a pre-game ceremony, the Celtics heralded last season's 17th NBA title by raising the championship banner to the rafters and the players were then presented with their winner's rings.
Forward Paul Pierce, who has played his entire 10-season career with the team, was presented with the banner by several former Celtics' players.
"It's moments like these that you cherish," Pierce, who struggled to fight back tears several times during the ceremony, told reporters. "It's very emotional.
"I'm just glad I pulled it together in time so we could come out and play the game."
The NBA finals MVP then helped his side overcome a seven-point halftime deficit to lead all scorers with 27 points. LeBron James led the Cavaliers with 22.
The Cavaliers, who lost to the Celtics in a tight Eastern Conference semifinal series last season, did not watch the 20-minute ceremony as they opted to return to their dressing room after warming up.
However, Cleveland forward Anderson Varejao admitted that the atmosphere was a motivating factor for his team.
"Seeing that makes us hungry to go out and get a ring of our own," he said.
Elsewhere on the opening day of the new NBA season, it was: Bulls 108, Bucks 95 and Lakers 96, Trail Blazers 76.
(Agencies via Shanghai Daily October 30, 2008)