Gordon Hayward STREETER LECKA/Getty Images/AFP
Gordon Hayward decided to take his talents from Salt Lake to Beantown on Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila).
READ: All-star Hayward agrees to sign with Celtics
The sought-after All-Star had also considered offers from the Miami Heat and his former team Utah Jazz, but announced that he’ll be heading to the Boston Celtics through an emotional piece published in The Player’s Tribune.
Prior to his announcement, multiple reports indicated that the former Butler standout heavily considered all three teams—so much so that he had a ghostwriter pen three different pieces for each potential destination.
His agent, Mark Bartelstein, confirmed the news to Jody Genessy of the Deseret News, claiming that the 27-year-old forward prepared a piece announcing his return to Utah and two more stating his move to either Boston or Miami.
But despite his earlier confusion, Hayward couldn’t resist the allure of reuniting with his college coach Brad Stevens and joining a contender like the Celtics.
Hayward will reportedly sign a four-year, $128-million contract with Boston, although nothing has been confirmed yet as Utah is also working on a sign-and-trade deal for its former franchise player. Khristian Ibarrola /ra