Celtics re-sign Xavier Tillman – NBA Blog – NBA Basketball Blog

The Boston Celtics recently re-signed forward/center Xavier Tillman Sr.

“When we got Xavier at the trade deadline, he came with the reputation of a winner and great teammate,” said Brad Stevens, President of Basketball Operations. “Xavier is a hard-worker who brings grit, toughness, and a team-first mentality that we appreciate. We are excited that Xavier has chosen to come back to the Celtics.”

Tillman Sr. appeared in 20 games (two starts) for the Celtics during the 2023-24 season after being acquired from the Memphis Grizzlies on February 7. In 54 games this season, he averaged 5.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 18.0 minutes per game.

On January 12, Tillman Sr. scored a season-high 20 points on 8-of-10 made field goals and grabbed nine rebounds vs. the Clippers. He recorded 10 multi-steal games this season, including a career-best six steals on January 13 when he became one of seven NBA players to register at least 12 points, five rebounds, five assists, and six steals in a game this season.

The Grand Rapids, Michigan native was selected with 35th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft after playing three seasons at Michigan State. In three NBA seasons, Tillman Sr. owns career averages of 6.0 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 227 career games (58 starts).