The Eastern Conference playoffs have delivered an early twist that few anticipated. The New York Knicks have taken a surprising 2-0 series lead over the heavily favored Boston Celtics, leaving fans stunned — and former Celtics legend Paul Pierce paying the price for a bold, on-air promise.
Ahead of Game 2, Paul Pierce — now a TV analyst for Fox Sports 1 — confidently declared that he would walk 15 miles (approximately 24 kilometers) barefoot and in a bathrobe to the studio if Boston failed to win at home. At the time, most assumed it was a safe bet, especially with the Celtics expected to bounce back strong at TD Garden.
Instead, Boston crumbled to Knicks.
Despite holding a commanding 20-point lead in the second half, the Celtics lost their grip and allowed the Knicks to stage an epic comeback. New York edged out a dramatic 91-90 victory in the final minutes, silencing the home crowd and pushing the Celtics into an 0-2 hole.
True to his word, Pierce set out the next morning to complete his unusual walk of shame — barefoot, wearing only a bathrobe.
“If the Celtics lose Game 2 at home, I promise I will walk to the studio tomorrow,” Pierce boldly proclaimed on FS1’s Speak before the game. “I’ll walk 15 miles, barefoot, in a bathrobe, no shoes — if they lose tonight.”
When they did, the 2008 NBA Finals MVP had no choice but to follow through. Pierce documented his barefoot trek across Los Angeles on social media, sharing both his disbelief and humor about the situation. “This is crazy, man,” he said during his walk. “I can’t believe this. The Celtics did this to me!”
A Marathon-Level March
Pierce’s journey turned out to be even longer than originally estimated. Google Maps calculated a walking route of approximately 20 miles (about 34 kilometers), with an estimated time of nearly eight hours — a distance just shy of a full marathon (42.2 km).
Setting out before sunrise, Pierce began his journey from his home in the L.A. area and headed toward the Fox Sports 1 studio. Fans spotted him along the way and took photos, some offering support, others poking fun at the former All-Star’s misfortune.
Despite being a former pro athlete — and no stranger to grueling physical feats — Pierce, now 47 and retired since 2017, faced a challenge. The rough L.A. pavement and the California sun added extra difficulty to the long-distance stroll.
Still, in good spirits and determined to honor his bet, he powered through.
Fans Cheer and Tease Along the Way
During the walk, fans and passersby spotted Pierce and joined in the fun — some cheered, while others teased him playfully. It was a surreal sight: a 10-time NBA All-Star walking through Los Angeles in a robe with no shoes on, holding a phone, and laughing at himself.
The video clips he posted showed that Pierce never lost his sense of humor — even when the journey got tough. He captioned one clip: “This might be the dumbest thing I’ve ever done, but a promise is a promise.”
Pierce finally reached the Fox Sports studio at approximately 12:38 p.m. local time, clearly relieved — and maybe a little proud. He had kept his word, and in doing so, provided a viral moment for NBA fans everywhere.
Celtics’ Last Chance to Recover
While Paul Pierce’s barefoot walk might be over, the Celtics’ playoff hopes are still hanging by a thread. With two upcoming games at Madison Square Garden, Boston needs to dig deep to keep their season alive.
Game 3 is scheduled for tomorrow, and Game 4 will follow on Tuesday, May 13. If the Celtics want to win this best-of-seven series, they’ll likely need to force it to at least a Game 6.
As Pierce limped his way to the studio, perhaps the Celtics can take a metaphorical cue — no matter how painful the road, if you’re determined enough, you can still make it to the finish line.
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