Blake Griffin, a six-time NBA All-Star, recently took on a role more commonly reserved for a minister or a judge: wedding officiant. The powerful forward was at the center of a heartfelt ceremony, officiating the wedding of his former Boston Celtics teammate, Payton Pritchard, and YouTuber Emma MacDonald. This memorable event took place on the sunlit beaches of Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
A Special Guest Officiant
Blake Griffin, who played with the Boston Celtics during the 2022-23 season, is known for his explosiveness on the court, but on this special day, he showcased a different side of his versatility. “We chose him because we knew he would keep the ceremony nice and light, and he did a fantastic job!” said Emma MacDonald. The couple’s decision evidently paid off, as Griffin's efforts were well-received by the attendees and the newlyweds alike. “The crowd absolutely loved it, and so did we. It was incredibly special to have one of our friends marry us,” she added.
A Gathering of the Celtics Family
The ceremony was a true gathering of the Celtics family, with notable attendees including Boston Celtics governor Wyc Grousbeck, head coach Joe Mazzulla, and teammates Oshae Brissett, Sam Hauser, and Xavier Tillman. The camaraderie and bond formed during the strenuous NBA season were evident, as players and staff came together to celebrate this joyous occasion.
Social Media Buzz
Social media lit up with moments from the ceremony. Emma MacDonald shared a post on Instagram, capturing the essence and emotion of the event. Celtics star Jaylen Brown also contributed to the buzz, sharing a short clip of Griffin during the ceremony on Twitter with the caption, "Yesterday was amazing congrats to my brother P rabbit pic.twitter.com/rpn61HrQ9q". The clip showcased Griffin's lighter side, drawing smiles and cheers from the online Celtics fandom.
A Romantic Journey
Payton Pritchard and Emma MacDonald’s relationship began in 2021, developing steadily as Pritchard’s basketball career progressed. Known for his determination and agility on the court, Pritchard made considerable contributions to the Celtics during the 2022-23 season, averaging 6.4 points, 2.1 assists, and 1.9 rebounds in 18.7 minutes per game during the postseason. Most notably, he made a remarkable half-court heave in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, demonstrating his clutch capabilities.
The couple got engaged in July 2023, sealing their commitment just a few months before their picturesque Cape Cod wedding. Their public engagement was a celebrated moment within the Celtics community, solidifying the strong support and affection from fans and teammates alike.
As Pritchard embarks on this new chapter of his personal life, his journey is met with the enthusiastic backing of his Celtics family, who have come to see him not only as a teammate but as a friend and brother.
Griffin’s role as the officiant added a unique touch to the ceremony, blending the world of professional basketball with personal milestones. The shared experiences and genuine friendships among the Celtics players have evidently extended beyond the court, fostering a tight-knit community that celebrates one another's successes both professionally and personally.
With the unforgettable event now etched in the memories of those who attended, Payton Pritchard and Emma MacDonald begin their married life with the love and support of a truly special group of people.