Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard has officially been named the 2024 NBA Sixth Man of the Year, a rightful nod following a franchise-record-setting year coming off the bench.

The explosive reserve set the league aflame with his deadly shooting, high energy, and game-turning presence and established himself as an essential arrow in one of the league's best teams.

Pritchard Breaks Records as a Bench Scorer

Celtics' Payton Pritchard Wins 2025 NBA Sixth Man of the Celtics' Payton Pritchard Wins 2025 NBA Sixth Man of the
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According to The Associated Press (via FoxSports), the campaign that won an award did not happen overnight. Pritchard topped all NBA non-starters with 1,079 points; a record no other reserve matched in the 2023–24 season. He also broke the NBA record for most three-pointers made by a reserve, making a record 246 triples, with nine additional ones in his occasional starts.

His consistent playing reserve was worth its weight in gold for the Celtics, who compiled a league-leading 61-21 mark. When Pritchard had at least 20 points as a reserve, the Celtics were 17-6. When he scored at least 10, they were 36-12. His value extended well past the box score.

Fifth Celtic in History to Be a Sixth Man of the Year Awardee

Pritchard is the fifth Celtic franchise in history to receive the esteemed Sixth Man of the Year award. He joins the ranks of legends such as Kevin McHale (1984, 1985), Bill Walton (1986), and Malcolm Brogdon (2023). Appropriately, the award is given in honor of Celtics Hall of Famer John Havlicek, arguably one of the NBA's first super-subs.

For former Celtics head coach Brad Stevens, who is now the organization's president, Pritchard is a legit baller by any means. He praised the young guard's commitment and effort in every game.

"For him to be honored with the award named after the great John Havlicek is a credit to all that he brings to the table for our team," Stevens said.

What Made Pritchard a Fan-Favorite in Boston?

For the record, Pritchard has 1,079 points off the bench. His league record in three-pointers made as a reserve is 246, along with an impressive plus-minus of 428 out of the starting lineup.

Pritchard's statistical contribution was undeniable. His range on shots frequently stretched from well beyond the arc, and his willingness to take the shot, even when the percentage wasn't there, made him a crowd favorite in Boston.

An Unforgettable (Almost) Triple-Double

One of Pritchard's most memorable games was on March 5, when he torched the scoreboard for 43 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 three-pointers made all off the bench. Although technically not a triple-double, it's one of the most outlandish stat lines in recent memory and a testament to his explosiveness.

His teammate, Derrick White, scored 41 points without any Boston stars.

According to Athlon Sports, if the Celtics book a ticket to the NBA Finals this year, Pritchard could do better than his 2024 Season's performance.