Paul Pierce walks 20 miles in robe after Celtics lose to Knicks in Game 2 [VIDEO]

NBA legend honors viral bet after Knicks stun Celtics in epic comeback

Paul Pierce, the Boston Celtics icon known as “The Truth,” is making headlines again—this time, for walking 20 miles in a robe after the Celtics dropped Game 2 of their 2025 playoff series to the New York Knicks. What began as a bold on-air boast turned into an 8-hour saga that had fans debating whether Pierce truly lived up to his word or simply pulled another classic stunt.

Immediately after the Knicks pulled their comeback off, Pierce went viral on X. He posted a photo of a map of the walk he would have to take. Then, earlier this afternoon, Paul Pierce began filming himself. The Celtic legend was recording himself walking. Now, he’s trending on social media.

The Bold Claim That Sparked It All

Before tip-off on May 7, 2025, Pierce made a now-infamous proclamation during a televised segment: “If the Celtics lose Game 2 at home, I’m walking here tomorrow. Fifteen miles. In my robe. Barefoot.” The clip, first shared on X by @NBA_NewYork, went viral immediately, with viewers amused by Pierce’s confidence.

But then, the Celtics lost. In stunning fashion, no less.

The New York Knicks mounted a 20-point comeback to win 91-90, silencing TD Garden and leaving the Celtics in a 0-2 series hole. The loss not only stunned fans but placed the spotlight squarely back on Pierce.

To his credit, Paul Pierce did not back away from the challenge.

From Bold Words to Barefoot Steps

On the morning of May 8, Pierce was spotted walking down city sidewalks, dressed exactly as promised: in a Celtics-green robe, barefoot, sweating under the morning sun. In a video shared again by @NBA_NewYork, Pierce could be heard saying, “This is crazy dog I can’t believe this. C’s got me out here like this. I’m sweating. So I’m about 4 miles in right now. So I think I got another 16 miles?”

While fans were quick to point out the math didn’t add up—Pierce had initially pledged 15 miles, not 20—the commitment to follow through surprised many. He clarified later that the walk was to the FS1 studio, and the actual distance turned out to be longer than expected.

Through his career, Paul Pierce has always said he walks it like he talks it.

Mixed Reactions from Fans

Online reactions ran the gamut. Some fans praised his dedication. One X user, @MikeyCoinSnatch, commented, “At least he’s a man of his word.” Others were more skeptical. @rage2x joked, “Nigga car parked right across the street lol,” while @trouble_scott wrote, “You know his ass lying.”

The walk triggered instant flashbacks to Pierce’s infamous 2008 NBA Finals wheelchair incident. During that game, Pierce was dramatically wheeled off the court, only to return shortly after and lead the Celtics to victory. Fans have long speculated the incident was exaggerated. @SportsTrollerX posted a meme of Pierce in a wheelchair captioned, “This how they gonna have to get Paul Pierce to the studio in the last 5 miles.”

Confirmed: He Actually Did It

Despite the trolling, news outlets confirmed Pierce followed through. The New York Post reported that he completed the walk in about 8 hours, citing his intended destination as the FS1 studio. Front Office Sports and ClutchPoints also confirmed the journey, noting his original 15-mile estimate had expanded due to the studio’s actual location.

So while some still questioned whether Pierce took breaks or got some off-camera assistance, the prevailing narrative became clear: he did walk—and in that robe.

As a result, he’s been one of the biggest topics of discussion online, this afternoon.

The Game That Made It Happen

Pierce’s public stunt would never have happened if not for the Celtics’ shocking collapse in Game 2. The Knicks outscored Boston 30-17 in the fourth quarter to steal the win. Josh Hart led the Knicks with 23 points, Karl-Anthony Towns posted 21 points and 17 rebounds, and Jalen Brunson added 17 points and clutch free throws.

Jayson Tatum, meanwhile, had a night to forget, shooting just 5-of-19 from the field and scoring 13 points. The Celtics’ inability to protect a big lead at home stunned analysts and fans alike—including one very vocal Pierce.

Pierce’s Personality on Full Display

This episode is classic Paul Pierce: brash, animated, and polarizing. As a player, he thrived in the spotlight. As an analyst, he’s embraced the role of confident provocateur. From smoking cigars on live TV to clashing with fellow panelists, Pierce is never afraid to make bold statements—and now, he’s shown he’ll stand (and walk) behind them.

It also speaks to the culture of modern sports media, where bold takes are not only expected but monetized. Pierce’s bet-turned-walk became content gold for networks and social media platforms alike.

Celtics Face Must-Win Situation in Game 3

As for the team that let Pierce down, the Celtics now find themselves in a perilous spot. Down 0-2 with the series shifting to Madison Square Garden, Boston will need a dramatic turnaround to avoid an early exit. Game 3 is scheduled for May 10, and all eyes will be on whether the Celtics can regroup.

If not, more hot takes—and possibly more barefoot walks—could be in store. However, it’s also likely that Pierce won’t vouch for the Celtics again. Despite being their former franchise star, Paul might just watch all of this as a fan.

Conclusion: The Truth Walks On

Paul Pierce may have exaggerated his past, but in this case, he walked the talk—literally. His robe-clad, barefoot journey became an instant meme and a reminder of the unpredictable drama that only the NBA and its personalities can provide.

Regardless of what happens next, Paul Pierce will keep entertaining people. On the court, he was a star. Off the court, he’s continued to be one.

For better or worse, Pierce has reminded fans why he’s one of the most entertaining figures in basketball media. And if the Celtics keep losing, “The Truth” might just have more miles to log.