TNT took a commercial break as Banner 18 rose to the rafters at TD Garden, a decision that fans watching from outside called a sign of disrespect, adding to their enthusiasm for the Celtics' title defense.

Just seconds after the Celtics began raising their newest banner, TNT ran a commercial so fans who weren't at the Garden couldn't watch the full celebration.

Celtics Unite, a fan account on X, joined numerous angry fans and media personalities in criticizing the cable channel.

“TNT turning off advertising after two seconds of raising the banner is CRIMINAL,” the account posted shortly after the celebration ended.

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

TNT has been broadcasting the NBA for the past year, having held media rights since 1989. The league reached an 11-year, $76 billion media rights deal with Amazon in June.

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

City Hall Plaza hosted TNT's legendary Inside the NBA studio team of Ernie Johnson and NBA legends Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Shaquille O'Neal before, at halftime and after Tuesday night's season-opening game at the Garden .

Lucy Burdge, a Boston-based sports betting host for Audacy Sports, BetQL and BetMGM, commented on TNT's decision to stop flying the banner: “The Celtics really need to win the championship again now.” “Do it for #BannerGate” , she posted on X.

One fan added: “I enjoyed watching the Celtics ring and banner ceremony. I wish TNT had shown the banner reaching to the rafters. Hopefully the Celtics can bounce back!”

Originally published: October 22, 2024 at 10:00 p.m