March 23, 2026, 1:59 p.m. ET
When Max Shulga scored his first career points in the NBA on Sunday with the Boston Celtics, the rookie accomplished a rather unique feat in the process.
Shulga began the day by suiting up in the G League, helping the Maine Celtics to an afternoon victory over the Cleveland Charge. He recorded 12 points, six rebounds and four assists in the 121-91 win at the Portland Expo Building in Maine.
The 23-year-old was recalled to Boston after the contest, with the Celtics set to host the Minnesota Timberwolves at 8 p.m. EDT. With the Timberwolves up by 16 points late, coach Joe Mazzulla opted to empty the bench, subbing Shulga in with 1 minute, 45 seconds left.
Shulga recorded his first field goal on a driving layup from the corner and added two free throws about one minute later. By doing so, Shulga became the first player in franchise history to score points in the NBA and G League on the same day.
Shulga began the season on a two-way contract after the Celtics selected him with the 57th overall pick in the NBA draft out of VCU. He logged just his sixth appearance of the season on Sunday for Mazzulla after debuting with the team on Feb. 4.
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The Ukrainian was upgraded to a standard contract on March 15 to help the Celtics reach the minimum roster threshold of 14 players. The contract is guaranteed for the remainder of the season and reportedly has a team option for next year.
Shulga has logged 38 appearances in the G League, averaging 15.5 points, 6.4 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.5 steals while shooting 37% from 3-point range. He recorded a career-high 35 points, nine assists, five rebounds and five steals on Feb. 7.
The 6-foot-4 guard has had a productive year in Maine and finally had the chance to net his first points in the NBA. The organization has been pleased with his addition and is eager to watch his continued development this year and beyond.