The Celtics were honored as the 2008 Professional Sports Team of the Year by the SportsBusiness Journal and SportsBusiness Daily.

The award was presented live at a special ceremony attended by over 600 sports business executives on Thursday, May 28 at the New York Marriott Marquis in New York City.

The Sports Business Awards recognize excellence and outstanding achievement in the sports industry for 2008.

"Being named the top franchise in professional sports by the Sport Business Journal is a great honor for the Celtics and a testament to all the hard-working individuals in our organization," Boston Celtics President Rich Gotham said. "We are grateful for the tremendous support we have received from our loyal fans, corporate and community partners who have played a major role in our success on the court and off."

Playing to 100 percent capacity at the 18,624-seat TD Banknorth Garden, the Boston Celtics have set records for attendance in each of the past two seasons. The team also doubled its season ticket base to more than 13,000 in one of the country's most competitive sports markets.

In addition, the team has sold out 108 consecutive games and has achieved record local and national television ratings. In the community, over 500 appearances were made during the 2008-2009 season by Boston Celtics players, coaches and legends. Furthermore, over 1,000 hours were volunteered by the team?s players and staff members. All of this, plus the addition of Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen, culminated in a return to glory, and the Celtics' 17th NBA championship.

The Celtics were chosen from five nominees for Professional Sports Team of the Year including, in alphabetical order, the Chicago Blackhawks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays.

"With the success of the inaugural Sports Business Awards last year, we decided to expand our program and recognize even more excellence in sports business," said Richard Weiss, publisher of the SportsBusiness Journal. "The winners and nominees being honored tonight represent those at the forefront of the sports industry."