Rajon Rondo’s NBA career is distinguished by his unique achievement of winning championships with both the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers, two of the league’s most storied franchises. His first title came with the Celtics in 2008, followed by a second with the Lakers in 2020. Despite the significance of both accomplishments, Rondo has expressed that the Lakers’ 2020 championship holds a more special place in his heart.
Reflecting on his experiences, Rondo highlighted the sentimental value of the 2020 victory, particularly because he was able to share it with his son during the unique circumstances of the NBA Bubble amid the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated, “It was more from a sentimental point of view, and something I remember more with my kids.” He further elaborated that winning his first championship at a young age led him to take the achievement for granted, but the 12-year gap before his next title allowed him to appreciate the 2020 victory “ten times more.”
Rondo’s journey to the 2020 championship was marked by significant personal and professional growth. After his initial success with the Celtics, he played for several teams, including the Dallas Mavericks, Sacramento Kings, Chicago Bulls, and New Orleans Pelicans, before joining the Lakers in 2018. His return to the Finals in 2020 was a testament to his resilience and adaptability.
The 2020 NBA season was unprecedented, with the league suspending play in March due to the pandemic and later resuming in a controlled environment known as the “Bubble” at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. This setting presented unique challenges, including isolation from the outside world and strict health protocols. For Rondo, the experience was particularly meaningful as he had the opportunity to have his son with him in the Bubble, allowing them to share in the championship journey together.
In contrast, Rondo’s 2008 championship with the Celtics came early in his career, during his second NBA season. At that time, he was part of a star-studded lineup alongside Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen. The team’s success was immediate, and as a young player, Rondo admitted to taking the achievement for granted, believing such victories would be a regular occurrence.
The 12-year interval between his championships provided Rondo with a deeper appreciation for the effort and circumstances required to reach the pinnacle of the NBA again. The 2020 title not only represented professional success but also personal fulfillment, as he could share the experience with his family in a way that was not possible in 2008.
Rondo’s unique perspective underscores the evolving nature of an athlete’s relationship with success. Early achievements may be met with youthful exuberance and a sense of invincibility, while later successes are often cherished more deeply, enriched by the wisdom and experiences gained over time.
Rondo’s Growth as a Leader
One key reason the 2020 Lakers’ championship meant more to Rondo was his evolution as a player and leader. When he won with the Celtics in 2008, he was a young point guard playing alongside established Hall of Famers like Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, and Ray Allen. While his role was crucial, he was still developing and learning the nuances of leadership.
By 2020, Rondo was one of the veterans on a Lakers team led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis. He was no longer the young player absorbing wisdom from older stars—he was now the one providing guidance, especially to younger players. His experience and high basketball IQ were instrumental in helping the Lakers navigate the challenges of the NBA Bubble and the rigorous playoffs.
LeBron James himself has spoken highly of Rondo’s leadership during the 2020 playoff run, referring to him as “Playoff Rondo,” a moniker earned because of his ability to elevate his game in crucial moments. His veteran presence was particularly valuable in the Finals against the Miami Heat, where he provided stability and direction.
“Playoff Rondo” and His Impact on the 2020 Championship Run
Throughout the 2020 playoffs, Rondo demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the smartest players in the NBA. His playmaking ability, defensive tenacity, and leadership were critical to the Lakers’ success. In the Finals, he was one of the key contributors off the bench, helping dictate the pace of the game and giving LeBron James another high-IQ player to work with.
Statistically, Rondo was impressive during the Lakers’ championship run, averaging 8.9 points, 6.6 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game in the playoffs. But his impact went beyond the numbers. His ability to control the tempo, make crucial defensive stops, and provide an extra playmaker on the court gave the Lakers an invaluable advantage.
The Emotional Element of Winning in the Bubble
One of the most challenging aspects of the 2020 championship was the mental strain of playing in the NBA Bubble. The isolation from family, the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, and the social justice movements taking place at the time all added an emotional weight to the season. Many players struggled with the mental toll of being away from their loved ones for months.
For Rondo, however, having his son in the Bubble made the experience even more meaningful. It wasn’t just about winning another ring—it was about sharing a moment of triumph with his family. Unlike his 2008 title, where he was a young player primarily focused on basketball, this time he was able to embrace the journey with a broader perspective on life.
Why His Lakers Championship Stands Out More Than the Celtics’ Title
Several factors contribute to why Rondo views the Lakers’ championship as more meaningful than his Celtics title:
- Personal Growth – As a young player in 2008, Rondo admitted he didn’t fully grasp the difficulty of winning a championship. By 2020, after years of ups and downs, he had a deeper appreciation for the journey.
- Veteran Leadership – Unlike in 2008, where he was part of a team led by veterans, in 2020 he played a significant leadership role. His experience was invaluable to the Lakers’ success.
- The NBA Bubble Experience – The 2020 season was unlike any other in NBA history. The challenges of playing in isolation, dealing with the emotional toll of the pandemic, and navigating social justice movements added layers of meaning to the championship.
- Sharing the Moment with His Son – Winning with his son present made the 2020 title far more special to Rondo than his first championship.
Boston Celtics Fans React
Rondo’s comments sparked a reaction from Celtics fans, some of whom were surprised that he placed the Lakers’ championship above his time in Boston. The Celtics’ 2008 championship was historic, as it ended a 22-year title drought and reestablished Boston as an NBA powerhouse.
For Celtics fans, that championship holds sentimental value, and Rondo was a key piece of that team’s success. However, it’s important to understand his perspective—his personal experiences shaped his appreciation of the Lakers’ championship in a way that was different from 2008.
Rondo’s Legacy as a Two-Time Champion
Rondo’s unique achievement of winning championships with both the Celtics and the Lakers places him in a rare category. He is one of only a few players in NBA history to have won titles with both of these rival franchises. This accomplishment further cements his legacy as one of the great point guards of his era.
His basketball IQ, defensive prowess, and ability to elevate his game in the playoffs set him apart. Even though he was never considered a dominant scorer, his impact on winning was undeniable.