When Mike Conley was born in October of 1987, the Boston Celtics were the reigning NBA champions. A year after he got drafted in 2007, the league's original monarchy lifted the Larry O'Brien Trophy for the 17th time in franchise history. It's an organization steeped in tradition and winning ways.
That's what comes to mind when the former All-Star thinks about the Celtics. It's a culture that he now gets to not only experience but contribute to.
"When you walk into the building, there's a sense, there's an atmosphere, there's something that's just a little bit different, and just you find yourself in there two, three hours, not realizing you've been in there working that much, and just a part of the culture," said Conley at Tuesday's introductory press conference at the Auerbach Center.
Before echoing that sentiment, George quipped, "Stole the answer right out of my mouth. I mean, it's winning. When you think of Boston, it's winning."
Paul George and Mike Conley bring urgency to the Celtics
The former Ohio State star, who was in the same draft class as Al Horford, is about to become the 14th player in NBA history to participate in his 20th season. George is entering his 17th year.
They both have made plenty of appearances in the conference finals. However, neither has played in the championship, let alone breathed the air at the top of the mountain.
Conley came to Boston to experience playing for a flagship franchise. That championship urgency he feels aligns with the north star his new team follows.
The hunger that he and George have, especially as respected and accomplished veterans, can be contagious. It can help motivate the entire group, as many on the roster strive for a second NBA title.
Paul George, Mike Conley ready to become mentors in Boston
Tuesday, George spoke about the key to maximizing his partnership with Jayson Tatum. He also candidly discussed whether he still views himself as a superstar. The nine-time All-Star made it clear that role belongs to his new teammate.
What George is excited about is how well they can complement each other on the court. It's not just that their styles of play should seamlessly mesh. He and Tatum know what it's like to be the No. 1 option. They have also fought through traumatic injuries. The former, who is eight years older, can also serve as a mentor to Tatum. It's a chance that he said he is looking forward to.
As for Conley, he is already working out with Payton Pritchard, including regular one-on-one sessions. The latter said this offseason that he was eager to learn from the soon-to-be 20-year vet. That process has already begun.
Conley's also an ideal mentor for the Celtics' burgeoning wings, Hugo Gonzalez, Baylor Scheierman, Jordan Walsh, and Ron Harper Jr. The lasting impact he can have on players like this captures a significant part of the value he brings to Boston.
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