Celtics retire Pierce’s jersey

Paul Pierce used to walk onto the court at TD Garden and imagine seeing his number hanging from the rafters.

"The Truth" doesn't have to dream about that day anymore.

The Celtics retired Pierce's No. 34 on Sunday following the Celtics' 121-99 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

He became the 23rd person in franchise history to have his number or name enshrined by the Celtics organization.

The honor capped a 19-year career for Pierce, who was named NBA Finals MVP in 2008 when the Celtics captured their 17th championship.

After the game, Pierce, clad in a green plaid blazer, entered the court via the newly named Paul Pierce Players' Tunnel. The team said the tunnel, featuring Pierce's signature, will serve as a reminder to current and future players of what "being a Celtic" means.

When his jersey was raised, Pierce was serenaded with chants of "Thank You, Paul Pierce!"

Sacramento waives Joe Johnson

Three days after being acquired at the trade deadline, Joe Johnson was waived by the Sacramento Kings on Sunday.

Sacramento announced the move before their game against the Timberwolves on Sunday night. The 36-year-old Johnson was acquired along with guard Iman Shumpert ,a 2020 second-round draft choice, the rights to forward Dimitros Agravanis and cash in a three-team trade involving the Cleveland Cavaliers and Utah Jazz. The Kings sent guard George Hill to Cleveland in the deal.

Johnson appeared in 32 games for Utah and averaged 7.3 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 21.9 minutes per game.