The Boston Celtics gave legendary play-by-play announcer Mike Gorman a memorable send-off on Friday during the team’s parade celebrating their NBA Championship victory earlier this week. Gorman, who spent 43 years as the voice of the Celtics, was visibly emotional as he reflected on the overwhelming support he received from fans.

Gorman called his final game during the Celtics’ Game 5 victory over the Miami Heat in the first round, where he received a heartfelt tribute from the TD Garden crowd and his colleagues at NBC Sports Boston. But the true celebration came with the championship parade, a fitting finale to his illustrious career.

On Friday, Gorman enjoyed the parade from a duck boat, beer in hand, soaking in the moment. Thousands of Celtics fans chanted his name throughout the day, nearly bringing him to tears.

“It’s a wonderful outpouring from the people of Boston for one of their own,” Gorman said. “I feel like I’m one of their own, having been born and raised here. Hearing my name shouted by the crowd was really touching. I wore sunglasses to hide my tears. It’s like the theme song from Cheers, where everybody knows your name. That’s how I feel about Boston now. I intend to stay here because it’s such a great place to live. Hopefully, I’ll stay for a long time.”

Having witnessed four championships during his career, Gorman is no stranger to the Celtics’ success. However, leaving on his own terms and seeing the final team he covered win a championship is a special moment that he and the fans will cherish for years to come.