Jaylen Brown revealed he reacted to his trade from the Boston Celtics to the Philadelphia 76ers by throwing his phone across the room.
Brown, a five-time All-Star, was formally introduced to the Philadelphia media on Thursday and recounted his discovery of the July deal. "When I first got traded I just threw my phone across the room," Brown said. He recalled that Tyrese Maxey was among the first to reach out, texting "I know there's a lot of stuff going on right now, but we [are] excited to have you."
The trade sent Brown from Boston to Philadelphia in exchange for Paul George and two first-round and two second-round draft picks. Brown, 29, spent his first 10 NBA seasons with the Celtics. He acknowledged he is still adjusting to his new team and city.
Brown also addressed his relationship with former Celtics teammate Jayson Tatum, which had been the subject of speculation. "We won a championship together," Brown stated. "Anybody that you win a championship with, you think that's what a brotherhood or a lifelong legacy would entail. Obviously, there's ups and downs in any type of relationship, for sure. On my end, there's nothing but respect. Besides when he plays for the Sixers, I hope he does well."
He also clarified his relationship with 76ers star Joel Embiid, after previously criticizing Embiid's flopping during the Celtics' playoff series against Philadelphia. Brown indicated that he and Embiid have maintained a friendly relationship over the years, noting their shared interest in soccer as a point of connection. "Me and Joel been friends throughout the years, have mutual respect," Brown said.