Per a release circulated by the team, the Boston Celtics have elected to give the 2026 Red Auerbach award to Boston point guard Payton Pritchard. The annual award was presented to Pritchard at midcourt by Celtics Team President Rich Gotham and Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens, prior to Boston’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans. This award, according to the Celtics, is traditionally bestowed upon the Celtics player or coach who best embodies the spirit of being a Celtic through exceptional performance both on and off the court.

“Payton’s growth and consistency speak to everything the Red Auerbach Award stands for – toughness, selflessness, and a commitment to the greater good of the team,” said Gotham of the honor.

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“He approaches his role with professionalism, purpose, and an amazing work ethic, earning the admiration and trust of his teammates and coaches alike,” he added.

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MARCH 25: Payton Pritchard #11 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the second quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at TD Garden on March 25, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – MARCH 25: Payton Pritchard #11 of the Boston Celtics looks on during the second quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at TD Garden on March 25, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

Established in 2006, the award is named in tribute to the legendary Celtics coach, general manager, and president, Arnold “Red” Auerbach.

Prior winners include Paul Pierce (2006, 2013), Al Jefferson (2007), Kevin Garnett (2008, 2012), Ray Allen (2009), Rajon Rondo (2010), Doc Rivers (2011), Brandon Bass (2014), Avery Bradley (2015), Isaiah Thomas (2016), Al Horford (2017), Kyrie Irving (2018), Marcus Smart (2019), Kemba Walker (2020), Jayson Tatum (2021), Robert Williams III (2022), Jaylen Brown (2023), Derrick White (2024), and Jrue Holiday (2025).

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This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Payton Pritchard wins Celtics Red Auerbach award for 2026