Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard achieved a remarkable scoring feat on August 7 at the Ball Don’t Stop Pro-Am in Victoria, British Columbia, igniting his off-season with a record-breaking performance. Pritchard poured in 68 points, eclipsing his previous personal best of 61 points from last summer, captivating an audience of over 2,300 fans at the University of Victoria’s Centre for Athletics, Recreation and Special Abilities. This incredible display of ball handling, consistent shot-making, and aggressive drives to the basket earned him the event’s Most Valuable Player honor.

Dominant NBA Season Underpins Pritchard’s Breakout Showing

Coming off a career-best NBA campaign, Pritchard’s 2024-25 season solidified his standing as one of the premier bench scorers in the league. He was awarded the Sixth Man of the Year after averaging 14.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, alongside maintaining an impressively low turnover rate of just one per game. Among all bench players, Pritchard led the league with 1,144 total points, 409 field goals made, 255 three-pointers, and a plus/minus of +430, showcasing his critical impact on the Celtics’ second unit.

In addition to leading in scoring and shooting, Pritchard ranked third in assists with 279 and was fifth in steals, collecting 70 over the season. His endurance was also notable, as he appeared in 80 out of the 82 regular season games, consistently delivering for head coach Joe Mazzulla’s team. Pritchard became only the third player in Celtics history to score more than 1,000 points off the bench, joining the ranks of franchise legends Kevin McHale and Ricky Davis. This places his achievement in a remarkable historical context given Boston’s status as an 18-time NBA champion.

Reunion with Chris Boucher Adds Depth to Celtics Lineup

In a notable offseason development, Pritchard will be reuniting at the professional level with former Oregon Ducks teammate Chris Boucher. The 6-9 forward signed a one-year, $3.3 million deal with the Boston Celtics, marking a fresh chapter after seven seasons with the Toronto Raptors. Boucher’s contract comes fully guaranteed, emphasizing Boston’s confidence in his abilities amid roster changes.

Boucher, who played a key role in Toronto’s 2019 NBA Finals upset over the Golden State Warriors, brings valuable experience and versatility to the Celtics’ frontcourt. He also earned a championship ring with Golden State in 2018. Last season, he contributed an average of 10 points and 4.5 rebounds in limited minutes, shooting efficiently from the field and beyond the arc. Boucher departs Toronto as a franchise leader in points scored off the bench (3,256), double-doubles, rebounds, blocks, and minutes played, plus holds the second spot in steals.

His arrival fills a critical gap for Boston, as forward Jayson Tatum remains sidelined indefinitely following a ruptured Achilles. Boucher is expected to assume a significant starting role, primarily at the power forward position, while also providing flexibility to play center when needed.

Significance of Pritchard’s Record and Future Outlook

Payton Pritchard’s sensational 68-point outburst not only reinforces his scoring prowess but also signals his rising influence with the Boston Celtics as a dynamic offensive threat. Setting this new benchmark at a popular off-season event underlines his readiness to build on an already impressive NBA season. With the Celtics adapting to challenges like Tatum’s injury and integrating new additions such as Chris Boucher, Pritchard’s leadership and scoring ability will be pivotal to the team’s pursuit of another championship run.

As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see how Pritchard leverages this momentum, and how Boucher’s arrival reshapes Boston’s frontcourt rotation. The duo’s shared history dating back to their time at Oregon adds a compelling narrative to the Celtics’ evolving roster and their ambitions ahead.

“I just try to keep pushing myself every time I step on the court, whether it’s summer or regular season.” —Payton Pritchard, Boston Celtics guard

“Having Chris join us is huge. His versatility and experience will help us tremendously as we move forward without Jayson for now.” —Joe Mazzulla, Boston Celtics head coach