TNT slammed for cutting to commercial during Celtics Banner 18 raising: ‘Disrespectful’

TNT went to a commercial break as Banner 18 rose to the rafters at the TD Garden, a decision that fans watching from outside called a sign of disrespect and an added to their enthusiasm for the Celtics to defend the title.

Just seconds after the Celtics started to lift its newest banner TNT cut to a commercial, preventing fans not inside the Garden from watching the celebration in full.

Celtics Unite, a fan account on X, joined scores of upset fans and media personalities in slamming the cable network.

“TNT cutting off into commercials after 2 seconds of the Banner being raised is CRIMINAL,” the account posted moments after the celebration ended.

Michael Hurley, a co-host on WZLX’s weekday morning show, The Rich Shertenlieb Show, added: “Cutting to commercials in the middle of the banner going up to the rafters is insanely disrespectful. TNT you are disrespectful.”

TNT is in its last year of broadcasting the NBA after holding media rights since 1989, with the league completing an 11-year, $76-billion media rights pact with Amazon in June.

TNT parent Warner Bros. Discovery did not match the terms offered by Amazon, the league said in a statement at the time.

City Hall Plaza played host to TNT’s iconic Inside the NBA studio team of Ernie Johnson and NBA legends Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal for pregame, halftime and postgame of Tuesday night’s season opener at the Garden.

Lucy Burdge, a Boston-based sports betting host for Audacy Sports, BetQL and BetMGM, weighed in on TNT cutting away from the banner raising: “The Celtics really have to win the championship again now. Do it for #BannerGate,” she posted on X.

One fan added: “Loved watching the Celtics’ ring and banner ceremony. Wish TNT showed the banner going into the rafters though. Hopefully, the Celtics can run it back!”