BOSTON, MA-- Al Horford is reintroduced as a member of the Boston Celtics on Thursday morning. He spoke to the media about his initial departure from the team, his return, and what he looks forward to this upcoming season.

Here is what Al Horford had to say to the medi:

"Really happy to be back, really appreciate how special of a place Boston is. For me, being away from it, seeing the type of city that it is, what the team's all about, that's something I really missed ... I'm just really grateful to have a second opportunity."

"When I had to make a tough decision and leave ATL, Danny & Brad sold me on this, the culture ... getting that banner 18, that's something that really excited me ... I wasn't able to get it done ... now that this time has passed ... for me, it's looking at what can I do?"

Horford on Coach Udoka: "Ime is a great guy, he and I had a really good relationship ... his views on the game defensively, he and I spent a lot of time talking about defense and coverages ... I'm excited about him and what he brings, how he can help our group."

Horford on leaving Boston: "It's in the past, it was disappointing how it ended for us two years ago with all those expectations ... I didn't know if I was going to get another opportunity to be in this position ... but now, I really feel like we have a fresh start."

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