Celticsmansad tomissHoops

BOSTON CELTICS are heading for London tonight but one team boss would rather be heading to Parkhead.

The NBA comes to the O2 Arena when Celtics take on the Philadelphia 76ers in the league’s annual British stop.

But Hoops-daft team chief John Connor is disappointed the showdown hasn’t taken him to Glasgow.

He said: “I may work for Boston Celtics but I am a Celtic man at heart.”

Celtics – led by former Cleveland Cavaliers star Kyrie Irving – are this season’s surprise package.

They’ve recovered from losing star man Gordon Hayward five minutes into the campaign to lead the Eastern Conference with a 33-10 record.

Celtics now face play-off hopefuls Sixers but having won six in a row Irving insists they can keep rookie sensation Ben Simmons quiet.

He said: “Those guys are so young and active. Simmons does a great job about getting everybody involved and aggressive.

“We have to bring our defensive intensity and make it uncomfortable and really give the fans a show. Bring the Celtic pride over here to London.”