As the Boston Celtics try to keep the wins coming against the Memphis Grizzlies at noon EDT on Super Bowl Sunday, they will have to do so without key reserve Brandon Bass, who will miss the game with a knee injury. However, Jermaine O'Neal will play for Boston after having an MRI on his knee Saturday, the results of which will be discussed by him after the game.
"Jermaine O'Neal's fine," said Celtics head coach Doc Rivers (via Celtics on Twitter). "But no Brandon today. I think it's just accumulation of the games. He had some swelling."
Rajon Rondo will be playing in his second game back after injuring his right wrist in the middle of January on a flagrant foul against the Toronto Raptors. Rondo had seven points and seven assists in the Celtics' comeback win over the New York Knicks on Friday night.
"Today's game will be more normal to Rondo than the last game," Rivers said (via Celtics on Twitter). "But he still hasn't had a (real) practice."
Tony Allen is returning to the city where he played for the first six years of his career. The ex-Celtic and current Grizzlies guard said he was "comfortable" and "around a great group of guys" in Memphis, which motivates him. Still, he is happy to be coming back to Boston.
"I love coming back here," Allen said (via Celtics on Twitter). "It's emotional. I've got a resume of winning (with the Celtics)."
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