Taylor Swift Supports Travis Kelce at Kansas City Chiefs Game 2 Weeks After Eras Tour Ends

Taylor Swift was spotted arriving at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. Dec. 21 to cheer on boyfriend Travis Kelce as his team the Kansas City Chiefs takes on the Houston Texans.

Taylor Swift remains in her NFL cheerleading era after closing a major chapter of her life.

The 35-year-old was spotted arriving at her boyfriend Travis Kelce‘s latest Kansas City Chiefs game, the first one since her record-breaking Eras Tour came to an end almost two weeks prior.

Taylor arrived at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. wearing a red furry coat, black skirt and matching knee-high boots and bucket hat.

The Grammy winner has often cheered on Travis at NFL games since they began dating in summer 2023 while she was on the road for the Eras Tour, which set a world record to become the highest-grossing music tour by generating more than $1 billion in revenue. Taylor missed her boyfriend’s previous two games Dec. 8—when she played her final show in Vancouver, Canada—and Dec. 15.

More than a week before the Chiefs latest game, which sees them facing off against the Houston Texans, Swift was spotted in Kansas City. On Dec. 12, The “Cruel Summer” singer made a surprise visit to Children’s Mercy Hospital, where she met several patients. She later celebrated her 35th birthday at a star-studded, Eras-tour-themed party thrown by Travis.

The athlete, who had attended more than a dozen Eras Tour concerts, had praised his girlfriend over her career milestone.

Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

“Shoutout to Tay,” the Chiefs star tight end said on the Dec. 11 episode of his and brother Jason Kelce‘s New Heights podcast. “The unbelievable Eras Tour has finally come to an end.”

Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Ultimately, the Eras Tour included 149 concerts, held in 51 cities around the world.

“A f–k ton is kind of how I sum it up,” Travis told Jason when asked how many shows Taylor performed. “It’s insane. Absolutely insane. Over 10 million people in the stands over the course of it, like cumulatively. It’s pretty crazy.”

He also gave a shoutout to her dancers and crew. “Obviously, it’s her music, her tour and everything but that was a full production, man,” the NFL star said. “It was the best tour in the world because of a lot of people.”

He added, “And mostly because of Taylor.”

Look back at the pair’s road to romance…

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July 2023: So, Make the Friendship Bracelets

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce‘s love story began in July 2023, when the singer’s Eras Tour made a stop at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo.

As a huge Swiftie, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end caught the show with hopes of giving Taylor a friendship bracelet with his number on it. However, he failed to complete the pass due to her pre-show rituals.

“I was disappointed that she doesn’t talk before or after her shows because she has to save her voice for the 44 songs that she sings,” Travis shared on the July 26 episode of his New Heights podcast. “So, I was a little butt-hurt I didn’t get to hand her one of the bracelets I made for her.”

JC Olivera/Getty Images

Summer 2023: This Is Him Trying

After publicly recounting his fumble—a move Taylor would later describe as “metal as hell”—Travis decided to shoot his shot and invite the Grammy winner to watch the Chiefs play at Arrowhead Stadium.

“I threw it out there, I threw the ball in her court,” he shared on The Pat McAfee Show. “I told her, you know, ‘I’ve seen you rock the stage in Arrowhead, you might have to come see me rock the stage in Arrowhead and see which one’s a little more lit.’ So, we’ll see what happens in the near future.”

Michael Owens/Getty Images

August 2023: Enchanted to Meet You

Travis was rocking a mustache—which he debuted in August during training camp—when he was first introduced to Taylor.

As he later noted of the era, “That ‘stache and the 87 jersey was pretty iconic there for a little bit, and I had it when I met Taylor for the first time.”

Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy / David Eulitt/Getty Images

September 2023: Sparks Fly

By early September, a source close to the situation told E! News that Travis and Taylor were “texting and talking here and there.”

“It’s been very low-key,” the insider explained, “as he’s been in season.”

Cooper Neill/Getty Images

September 2023: Cheer Captain

Accepting Travis’ invite, Taylor joined the athlete’s mom Donna Kelce at Arrowhead Stadium to watch him and the Chiefs take on the Chicago Bears. After the game, Taylor and Travis were seen packing PDA at a local bar.

Though folklore had it that it was the couple’s first in-person meeting, the “Karma” singer later clarified the two had spent a “significant amount of time” getting to know each other beforehand.

As Taylor noted, “We would never be psychotic enough to hard launch a first date.”

Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images

October 2023: Team Up

As an indication that the relationship was heating up, Taylor brought her squad—including friends Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, Sophie Turner, Hugh Jackman, Sabrina Carpenter and Antoni Porowski—to watch the Chiefs play against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

David Eulitt/Getty Images

October 2023: It’s Nice to Have a Friend

Another sign that Travis could be The 1? Taylor started bonding with Brittany Mahomes—the wife of Travis’ BFF and teammate Patrick Mahomes—in and outside of NFL games.

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October 2023: Welcome to New York

The couple took their romance to TV, making a surprise appearance on the Oct. 14 episode of Saturday Night Live. Their Big Apple takeover also included the after-party for the NBC sketch show and a date night at the Waverly Inn.

Marcelo Endelli/TAS23/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

November 2023: Karma Is Her Boyfriend

During a bye week, Travis traveled down to Argentina to catch the South American leg of Taylor’s Eras Tour. Not only did the NFL star bond with Taylor’s dad, Scott Swift, at the Nov. 11 show in Buenos Aires, but he also got a special shoutout from the stage.

“Karma is that guy on the Chiefs,” Taylor sang, “coming straight home to me.”

After the show, the Midnights artist was seen running up to Travis backstage and greeting him with a passionate kiss.

Buda Mendes/TAS23/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

December 2024: Speak Now

Taylor addressed the lavender craze surrounding her appearances at Travis’ games.

“I’m going to see him do what he loves, we’re showing up for each other, other people are there and we don’t care,” she told Time. “The opposite of that is you have to go to an extreme amount of effort to make sure no one knows that you’re seeing someone.”

 

Kathryn Riley/Getty Images

December 2023: You, Who Charmed Her Dad

The music superstar turned Travis’ Dec. 17 game into a family affair, bringing her dad to cheer on her man.

Gotham/GC Images

January 2024: All the Midnights

Taylor and Travis spent their first New Year’s Eve together, sharing a romantic kiss when the clock struck midnight on Jan. 1.

Kathryn Riley / Contributor (Getty Images)

January 2024: Chosen Family

Continuing to bond with Travis’ family, Taylor hung out with his brother Jason Kelce and sister-in-law Kylie Kelce at the Chiefs’ game against the Buffalo Bills.

Patrick Smith/Getty Images

January 2024: Saved by the Perfect Kiss

Taylor joined Travis on the football field when the Chiefs won the AFC Championship, a victory that cemented the team’s spot in the 2024 Super Bowl. The couple shared a celebratory kiss before exchanging the L-word.

“Tay, I’m gonna enjoy with the guys,” he told her. “I love you—so much it’s not funny.”

 

 

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

February 2024: Super Bowl Champs

The pair locked lips on the field after Travis led the Kansas City Chiefs to victory on Feb. 11, 2024 in Las Vegas.

TikTok

February 2024: TikTok Official

Taylor posted footage of Travis on social media for the first time Feb. 12, poking fun at how she took her parents clubbing with the athlete after the Super Bowl.

Instagram / Taylor Swift

June 2024: Instagram Official

Taylor’s first Instagram pic featuring Travis was a selfie of the two with Prince William and his and wife Kate Middleton‘s eldest kids Prince George and Princess Charlotte backstage at the singer’s Eras tour show at Wembley Stadium in London.

Gareth Cattermole/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

June 2024: Travis’ Eras Tour Stage Debut

While attending his seventh Eras tour concert, and second show at London’s Wembley Stadium, the NFL star joined his girlfriend onstage as a backup performer during her performance of “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart.”

Instagram

September 2024: Back in the Game

Taylor joined Travis for the Chief’s first game of the regular 2024-25 season and appeared to re-enact a PDA moment from October 2023 in this photo shared by Chariah Gordon, who is pictured with her boyfriend, Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman.

Janet Mayer / Splash by Shutterstock

September 2024: Wedding Date

The two attended model Karen Elson‘s wedding to Electric Lady Studios owner Lee Foster in New York City.

Sarah Stier/Getty Images

September 2024: U.S. Open Date

The next day, the pair attended the men’s singles final match at the U.S. Open.

XNY/Star Max/GC Images

October 2024: Double Date

The two stepped out for a double dinner date with Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds in NYC.

CONGRATULATION: Jayson Tatum Finds New Home in 2024 NBA Signings Tracker for $350 million; Phoenix Suns Sign Playmaker due to…..

CONGRATULATIONS: Jayson Tatum Finds New Home in 2024 NBA Signings Tracker for $350 Million; Phoenix Suns Sign Playmaker

In one of the most headline-grabbing moves of the 2024 NBA offseason, Jayson Tatum has secured a massive contract extension worth $350 million, a deal that solidifies his place as one of the league’s top players for the foreseeable future.

Tatum, who has been the cornerstone of the Boston Celtics since he entered the league in 2017, is now locked in as the face of the franchise for years to come. This monumental deal reflects both his on-court dominance and his leadership, as he has consistently led the Celtics in scoring, defense, and playmaking.

Tatum’s new contract is among the richest in NBA history, underscoring the Celtics’ belief in his ability to guide them to future championships. His all-around game and clutch performances, particularly in the postseason, have made him one of the league’s elite players, and the Celtics are betting on his continued growth.

This extension is a testament to Tatum’s work ethic and the impact he has had on the team, as well as the Celtics’ commitment to building a championship contender around him.

Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns made significant waves in the free-agent market by signing a dynamic playmaker to complement their already formidable lineup. The Suns, led by stars Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, have been seeking a player who can elevate their ball movement and playmaking ability, and they’ve found a perfect fit.

The newly signed playmaker is expected to bring both scoring and playmaking to the Suns’ backcourt, enhancing their offensive flow and helping to balance the team’s potent scoring attack.

This signing is particularly important for the Suns as they aim to build on their success in recent seasons and make a deeper playoff run. With Booker, Durant, and now a talented playmaker, Phoenix is poised to contend in the competitive Western Conference. The new acquisition adds depth and versatility to the team, giving them an additional weapon on offense and someone who can facilitate the game at a high level.

Both of these signings have significant implications for the 2024-2025 season, as Tatum’s massive contract keeps him in Boston for the long haul, and the Suns’ new addition strengthens their chances of becoming championship contenders in the West.

 

“Jon Bon Jovi and His Son: A Journey of Fame, Family, and Evolution Through the Years”

Jon Bon Jovi, the legendary frontman of the iconic rock band Bon Jovi, has long been admired not only for his musical career but also for his role as a father. Over the years, his relationship with his children, particularly his son, has captured the public’s attention. From his early years in the spotlight to the present day, Jon’s bond with his son has evolved in ways that reflect both the passage of time and the changes in their lives.

In the early stages of Jon Bon Jovi’s career, his personal life remained somewhat private, especially when it came to his family. However, as his fame grew, so did the interest in his life outside of music. Jon married his high school sweetheart, Dorothea Hurley, in 1989, and together they had four children.

One of their children, their son, Jesse Bongiovi, has been particularly in the spotlight as he gradually stepped into the public eye. Growing up in the Bon Jovi household, Jesse was surrounded by fame, but Jon was determined to give his children a sense of normalcy despite his high-profile career.

Jesse Bongiovi, who has become an entrepreneur and a rising figure in the social scene, was seen with his father at various public events over the years. In his younger years, Jesse’s relationship with his father was that of a typical father-son dynamic: full of love and admiration.

As Jesse matured, he ventured into his own professional endeavors, including the creation of his own wine label, Hampton Water, which garnered attention for its unique concept and success. The transition from Jon’s son to an independent adult has been a smooth one, with the two showing mutual respect for each other’s achievements and paths.

Fast forward to today, and Jon Bon Jovi and his son Jesse have an even stronger bond. Their relationship, while still rooted in the values of family and support, now has an added layer of mutual professional respect.

Jon, who once performed for thousands of fans, now watches proudly as his son navigates his own entrepreneurial journey. In interviews, Jon has expressed pride in his children’s accomplishments, especially in how Jesse has made his own way in the world, separate from his father’s rockstar legacy.

The transformation of Jon Bon Jovi and his son, from the early years of family life to the present day, showcases how time and success have shaped both of them. While Jon’s legacy in music remains untouchable, his evolution as a father and mentor to his children has added a deeply personal layer to his public image.

The relationship between Jon Bon Jovi and his son, Jesse, is a testament to the importance of family, and how even in the world of stardom, strong family bonds endure and thrive.

Travis Kelce gears up for the Kansas City Chiefs’ quest amid holiday plans with Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift, who never misses out any chance to spend time with her Beau Travis Kelce, has planned something exciting for the upcoming festivities.

The 35-year-old has decided to spend the holidays with her lover Travis in Kansas city.

As per the reports, the star is thrilled to celebrated the forthcoming holidays with her partner as Kelce gears up for the Kansas City Chiefs’ quest for a potential third consecutive Super Bowl victory.

An insider revealed that, the Cruel Summer singer will be going to Kansas City and will stay there for a few weeks with Travis and show him love and support.

“She wants to witness another potential championship season for the Chiefs,” the source shared with The U.S. Sun.

The source went on explaining that the pop icon’s decision will allow the Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce to relish much-needed time together.

Earlier, an insider shared that Christmas will be a special holiday for both of them, saying: “Travis loves to surprise Taylor with unique gifts, and they’re both excited to spend the season together.”

In another update, Taylor Swift sparked engagement speculations with Travis Kelce, following the end of her record-breaking Eras Tour.

Travis Kelce sets the record straight amid Taylor Swift engagement rumour

Travis Kelce reveals the truth behind engagement rumours with Taylor Swift

Travis Kelce reveals the truth behind engagement rumours with Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have been dating for more than a year now, and the fans are anxiously waiting for the Super Bowl Champion to get down on one knee and pop the question to the Karma singer.

In such an environment, pictures of the Long Live crooner’s Eras Tour-themed 35th birthday bash thrown by the Grotesquerie star sent the fans into frenzy.

Eagle-eyed netizens were quick to notice that 35-year-old’s ring finger had been ‘blurred’ giving rise to a speculation that the duo has taken their relationship to the next level.

However, sources close to the duo revealed to Daily Mail that there is no truth to the rumour, and the fans need to “chill” and give them all the time they need for them to take the next step.

An insider spilled the beans on Taylor and Travis’ reaction to the whole fiasco, “They are both aware of the fact that the whole world is so thirsty for them to be engaged and, while Taylor does want a white wedding one day, her friends just feel like people need to chill and let them be a couple,”

Another source shared, “Travis has ideas but he isn’t going to be rushed to do it, because when he does it, it will be on his own terms and it will be the most special moment of his life,”

The source further added that the engagement would happen “when people least expect it”.

It is to be noticed that the anticipation for the engagement and eventually wedding is not just from fans but also from the family of the Kansas City Chiefs tight end who is comparing him with his brother and his wife who already have a family of their own.

(Video) Travis Kelce & GF Taylor Swift attend Christmas event in Kansas before the Chiefs vs Houston Texans

Taylor Swift and her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, were recently spotted heading back to Kelce’s Kansas City mansion ahead of the highly anticipated Chiefs vs. Houston Texans game. On Friday, December 20th, Swift’s motorcade, consisting of two silver SUVs, was seen making its way to Kelce’s home in Missouri, just one day before the game on Saturday, December 21st, at Arrowhead Stadium.

Swift’s appearance in Kansas City sparked excitement and speculation among fans, especially given the close proximity to the Chiefs’ big game. The couple has been making headlines since they hit a milestone in their relationship, celebrating over a year of dating. To mark the occasion, Kelce threw a beautiful Iris-themed birthday party for Swift in Kansas City. The celebration, which was attended by close family and friends, was a touching tribute to the success of Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour and her recent 35th birthday.

 

 

Amid the excitement of their public appearances, reports have surfaced that Kelce’s family has been encouraging him to propose to Swift. According to sources, the NFL star is under constant pressure from his parents to follow in the footsteps of his brother, Jason Kelce, who is expecting his fourth child with his wife, Kylie. The insider revealed that Kelce’s family often jokes about marriage plans and compares his relationship with Swift to his brother’s growing family.

Speculation about their engagement has also been fueled by recent events. During a lavish party thrown by Kelce in honor of Swift’s tour, fans noticed that Swift’s left ring finger appeared blurred in photos, sparking rumors that she may have been hiding an engagement ring. However, the couple has not publicly confirmed any engagement.

The couple’s holiday plans are another source of buzz among fans. Despite Kelce’s busy NFL schedule, with back-to-back games during the festive season—including the December 21st matchup against the Texans and a Christmas Day game against the Pittsburgh Steelers—he and Swift are reportedly organizing a cozy and intimate Christmas celebration. Sources suggest that Swift will fly to Kansas City between games to be with Kelce, and the couple plans to blend traditional holiday festivities with their own unique touch.

 

Their Thanksgiving gathering in Nashville marked the first time their families had mingled, further symbolizing the deepening of their relationship. As they head into Christmas, the couple’s ability to balance their demanding careers and make time for each other speaks to the strength of their bond. Fans are eagerly awaiting more details about their holiday celebrations and the possibility of a special announcement.

Beyond their personal lives, Kelce and Swift have also been considering joint projects that could further merge their worlds of music and sports. While details are scarce, fans are excited about the potential collaboration, which has sparked curiosity and anticipation.

As the couple continues to navigate the challenges of their high-profile lives, many are taking note of how they stay grounded despite their fame. Whether it’s supporting each other’s careers, sharing intimate celebrations, or planning a quiet Christmas together, Kelce and Swift have become the epitome of a modern power couple.

In other news, Kelce recently opened up about his future in football. After 12 successful seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, the 35-year-old tight end has hinted at retirement in the near future. Speaking on the New Heights podcast, Kelce expressed his emotional connection to his hometown of Cleveland and admitted that he often thinks about retirement due to the physical toll of his career. Despite the challenges, Kelce remains focused on helping the Chiefs secure another playoff berth as they close out the regular season.

As Christmas approaches, the couple’s fans can’t help but feel excited about what’s next for this high-profile pair, eagerly awaiting any news about their relationship—and whether an engagement announcement will be part of their holiday festivities.

Taylor Swift gives hat to 7-year-old fan in full circle moment: ‘Last time I saw you, you were a baby’

Taylor Swift has kept up the memorable tradition of giving one lucky fan part of her costume during each “Eras Tour” concert. On Nov. 2 — the second to last U.S. show of the tour — the encounter was a moment seven years in the making.

During the part of the show dedicated to her fourth album “Red,” Swift walks down the catwalk while singing “22” and meets one attendee standing at the edge of the stage. Swift crouches down each night and takes off her black fedora to give to the fan.

Recipients of the famed “22” hat include Bianka Bryant, daughter of Vanessa and the late Kobe Bryant; Mikael Arellano, a TikTok creator who went viral for his “Bejeweled” choreography; and Gracie Elliott Teefey, Selena Gomez’s little sister.

Eloise received the hat during Swift’s second Indianapolis show Saturday at Lucas Oil Stadium. The 7-year-old, wearing a pink, green, purple and blue sparkly jacket, shared a big hug with Swift. The singer then appeared to say to Eloise, “Last time I saw you, you were a baby,” while miming rocking an infant.

The story goes like this: Seven years ago, Eloise’s mom, Cindy Childs, started a livestream on Instagram that Swift watched and commented on. Childs, a longtime Swiftie, got to chat with the singer and show her baby Eloise, then just a few months old.

According to screenshots posted by fans, Swift left a ton of comments on the livestream, including an all-caps “ELOISE” and “she’s a tiny baby and I will totally meet her and A when they’re not 3 months old and jus tryna GET SOME REST.”

Saturday’s concert marked Eloise’s first time seeing Swift perform after being “born and raised a Swiftie.”

Taylor Nation, an official X account associated with Swift, posted about the moment Saturday.

“What a full-circle moment it is for Taylor to finally meet Eloise, @talldrinkhappy! It’s been a long 7 year wait! We are so happy for her! #IndyTSTheErasTour #TSTheErasTour,” the account wrote.

But it wasn’t just Swift, Eloise and her mom who got a kick out of the sweet moment. Longtime Swifties were also emotional about the moment.

“I’M GONNA CRY!” a fan wrote on X.

“In the clerb, we all cried over Eloise,” another wrote.

And one fan used a clip from “Succession,” in which Tom shouts, “Excuse me, executives coming through,” to show that only true Swift fans understand the meaning of the moment.

“Swifties veterans tonight as we sob over Eloise and see people pretending to know the significance,” the post read.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com

Travis Kelce’s 72-year-old mom faces backlash over ‘ridiculous’ outfit that matches Taylor Swift’s, with critics saying she is ‘too old’ for it

Travis Kelce’s 72-year-old mother, Donna, is facing intense backlash after stepping out in a controversial outfit that matches the one worn by pop superstar Taylor Swift. The incident has sparked a wave of criticism, with many calling her choice “ridiculous” and suggesting that, at her age, she is “too old” to be wearing such attire.

While Taylor Swift is known for her fashionable, youthful looks, the fact that Donna Kelce, a mother and grandmother, chose to wear an outfit that closely mirrored Swift’s style has drawn mixed reactions from the public.

Donna Kelce, who has become a well-known figure due to her son’s success in the NFL and his rumored relationship with Swift, was seen at a recent game wearing a version of an outfit Swift had worn earlier. The matching look, consisting of a trendy ensemble that some found to be more fitting for a younger person, was deemed by many as inappropriate for someone of Donna’s age.

Critics quickly took to social media, calling out the 72-year-old for trying to emulate the pop icon’s signature style. Some users questioned whether she was attempting to remain relevant in the public eye by copying Taylor’s bold fashion choices.

However, others defended Donna, emphasizing that fashion is not bound by age and that everyone, regardless of how old they are, should have the freedom to express themselves. The controversy has raised important questions about how society perceives aging and fashion. In an era where style often transcends age and trends evolve rapidly, it seems that the line between “appropriate” and “outrageous” is increasingly being blurred.

Despite the negative reactions, Donna Kelce’s fashion choice did not go unnoticed, and she continues to be a beloved figure, especially for her unwavering support of her son, Travis. Whether or not the criticism affects her personal style choices, it is clear that she has become a polarizing figure in the media.

For now, Donna’s outfit serves as a reminder of how, in the world of celebrities, fashion choices can often stir up unexpected controversy—especially when they involve bold moves that push the boundaries of societal expectations.

Jaylen Brown, Celtics lose their cool in loss to Bulls: ‘It’s been a tough week’

BOSTON — On a different day, in a different week, perhaps Jaylen Brown would have just shrugged off referee Justin Van Duyne’s remarks during the fourth quarter Thursday night. But during an emotional time in his life, after a break-in at his mother’s house in Wellesley over the weekend, Brown didn’t hold back.

Brown believed the officials made a mistake by whistling Joe Mazzulla for a technical foul because he stepped onto the court following a jump ball call with 5:12 left in the Celtics’ 117-108 loss to the Bulls. And Brown said so. Twice.

“Here’s the thing,” Brown said. “You get fined — I got fined a couple weeks ago for inadvertent gestures that were determined not a part of the game, which was fine. I took the fine. But what part of the game is the ref calling an inadvertent technical foul? And then I said to him, ‘You called a tech for no reason.’ He said, ‘If you say it to me again, I’m gonna call another tech.’ And then he called a tech. Man, get out of here. You can’t threaten guys with a technical foul. That’s not part of the game either. You want to fine people for gestures and all this stuff, fine that. This is some bulls—.”

It further bothered Brown that the exchange with Van Duyne came during such a key part of the game. At the time of the jump ball call, the Celtics trailed 99-96. The two technical free throws increased their deficit to five points. After Payton Pritchard lost the jump ball, Zach LaVine capitalized with a 3-pointer on the ensuing Chicago possession. Boston’s chances to win nearly disappeared immediately.

“We were down three at the time at the jump ball and that led to us being down eight and that affects the game,” Brown said. “That could have been avoided. Joe didn’t say anything to deserve a tech. And when I come to you and say you’re giving a tech for no reason, as a captain before the game, I come and shake all the refs’ hands because I speak for my team. I’m allowed to talk. So when I tell you you called a tech for no reason and you say, ‘If you say it again, I’m calling another tech,’ then I say it again and you call a tech, you just threatened your whistle as a threat. Like, that’s not a part of the game either.”

Boston’s problems didn’t stop with Brown’s technical foul. Jayson Tatum collected one of his own two minutes later. After LaVine’s 3-pointer pushed the margin to eight points, the Celtics never pulled any closer than six. They continued to express their frustration even after the final buzzer.

Before eventually leaving the court, Mazzulla gestured at the referees in anger and tried to approach them to share his disapproval. He was enraged enough that two assistant coaches and a security guard stepped in to direct him away from the officiating crew. It didn’t take a body language expert to realize Mazzulla wasn’t trying to deliver pleasantries, though he did joke he just wanted to wish them well.

“I just hadn’t seen them in a while, so just a Merry Christmas, happy holidays,” Mazzulla said. “I wasn’t sure I was going to see them before the holiday, and I just can’t let a moment go by to where you wish someone just the best to them and theirs and their families.”

Though Mazzulla addressed the incident with humor, the fourth quarter and the aftermath of it equaled a rare meltdown for the Celtics. They once had consistent issues with poise, but have graduated from that problem. Now, they almost always stay composed.

That’s one reason why they rolled to a championship last season, and why they’re favored to repeat. But they lost their cool Thursday. They unraveled like they hardly ever do these days. Even beyond the issues with the referees, Mazzulla said he thought the Celtics’ defensive execution waned in the second half because they didn’t make shots throughout the game. They shot 14 of 56 on 3-point attempts for their second-worst percentage of the season (25 percent).

Even with the poor shooting, the Celtics pulled within three points on a 6-0 run midway through the fourth quarter. The consecutive technical fouls killed their momentum. On its own, the initial one from Mazzulla would have been bad enough for them.

Brown could have prevented the second technical foul simply by declining to repeat his stance on the situation to Van Duyne. As much as it bothered Brown, he said Van Duyne told him exactly what would happen if he shared his opinion on Mazzulla’s technical foul a second time. Still, Brown tested the referee in a spot where the Celtics couldn’t afford to hand away another point.

“He questioned our integrity multiple times during that same sequence,” referee Tony Brothers explained in a pool report.

“It wasn’t our best moment right there,” Kristaps Porziņģis said. “We had to maintain our cool because the game was still right there (to win).”

The Celtics can normally rely on Brown, the Finals MVP, to stay collected when they need him most. If he was not himself at that moment, it was understandable. He missed practice early this week after a break-in at his mother Mechalle’s house Sunday night. She was in the Wellesley residence at the time of the crime, which occurred while the Celtics were in Washington, D.C. for a matchup with the Wizards.

“Obviously, my mother’s security is (of) the utmost importance to me, and that’s been compromised, and so it’s been a tough week,” Brown said. “We’ve had, you know, media members and reporters outside our house trying to get an inside scoop. Like, have some respect. It’s been a tough week. I’m not gonna lie.

“Thank God nothing serious or physical or threatening happened, but the fact that it could have just kind of lingers in your mind.”

The Celtics also dealt with another break-in this week. Amile Jefferson’s championship ring was reported stolen from his home in Newton. Mazzulla said nobody was at Jefferson’s house at the time of the robbery.

“They’re healthy, which is good, so they’re safe,” Mazzulla said of the Brown and Jefferson families. “It’s a scary thing, I think, for people. You see it happen around in different sports and you’re obviously aware of it, but when it happens to you, you have an understanding of the risk there. So we’re just happy that they’re safe.”

The pair of incidents within the team were still alarming. Even before they occurred, Mazzulla said the Celtics met with team security in early December about the rash of recent break-ins targeting professional athletes. The team held another meeting this week after the trend impacted the locker room.

“Whether it’s been the front office or our security team, whether it’s been local police departments, they’ve done a good job educating us on how we can get better, but the most important thing is making sure the families and the people involved are as comfortable and safe as they can be,” Mazzulla said. “And not just safe from the standpoint of their home, but psychologically as well.”

“The Celtics have provided information for us to figure it out and make sure we can do our job when we travel and stuff,” Brown said. “I know it’s been going on in different parts of the world and different parts of the U.S. where similar things have happened to athletes, etc. So hopefully, anybody who it hasn’t happened to yet, just make sure you’ve got things in place and that it doesn’t. Obviously, to go through that experience and people still in the crib and stuff like that is, it just means you think about some things differently.”

Going through all of that, it has been a heavy week for the Celtics and for Brown. It’s easy to think he might have reacted differently to the referees Thursday if he’d had less on his mind. But he is human. He is hurting.

“Jaylen has been there for his mother,” Mazzulla said before the game. “We’re trying to be there for Amile. I think the Celtics have done a great job doing what they can to educate us on how to be better, but at the same time make sure that we have a sense of security and peace amongst us. And I think that’s been key this week. The basketball stuff isn’t as important as that.”

(Photo of Jaylen Brown shooting over Patrick Williams: David Butler II / Imagn Images)

Where the sale of the team stands, how Jayson Tatum stacks up early in the MVP race, and other thoughts on the Celtics

Lead owner Wyc Grousbeck has said that he intends to stay in control of the Celtics through 2028.Pat Greenhouse/Globe Staff

Shaking my notebook up and down and seeing what falls out as the Celtics wind down 2024 …

▪ When the Grousbeck family announced in July that it was putting the franchise up for sale, it said it intended to sell a majority stake in late 2024 or early 2025, with the balance closing in 2028. Well, it’s late 2024, and league sources said no deal is imminent.

According to a league source familiar with the sale process, that is because official bidding has yet to commence. The source said that likely bidders are still waiting for initial meetings, and that bidding will likely begin in January. The process is expected to unfold relatively quickly after that.

Lead owner Wyc Grousbeck has said that he intends to stay in control through 2028, and he reiterated that hope during the team’s White House visit last month. Celtics co-owner Steve Pagliuca and limited partner Robert Hale are the only people to publicly state interest in joining the bidding process. Hale has said he could seek to be a lead investor or ultimately join another group to remain a limited partner.

▪ ESPN on Friday released its first NBA MVP straw poll of the season. The panel of 100 media members slotted Nuggets center Nikola Jokic first, with 57 first-place votes and 827 total points, followed by Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (678 points), Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (643), Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (267), and Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (123). Tatum did not receive any first-place votes and placed second on three ballots.

I had Jokic first, followed by Antetokounmpo, Gilgeous-Alexander, Tatum, and Doncic. Even though the Celtics have been excellent, they have the most-talented roster in the NBA by a good margin. And unlike last season, when the Celtics finished with seven more wins than any other team, they own the third-best record in the league.

The Celtics have been 8.7 points per 100 possessions better with Tatum on the court than off, the best net rating on the team. But Tatum’s field goal, 3-point, and free throw percentages have dipped since last season. It is only December, of course.

▪ It feels as if the Celtics have had a lengthy run of games against lesser opponents. After all, three of their 27 wins have come against the four-win Wizards. Believe it or not, Boston actually has the fifth-easiest remaining schedule, with future opponents sporting a combined winning percentage of .484.

Part of this is due to being in the crummy Eastern Conference. The six easiest remaining schedules belong to teams in the East. Having said that, January is filled with spicy matchups against the Western Conference’s Lakers, Warriors, Thunder, Nuggets, Timberwolves, and Mavericks.

▪ Players on nonguaranteed contracts will have their deals fully guaranteed if they remain on rosters past Jan. 7. This does not apply to anyone on the Celtics, but it’s worth keeping an eye on that date anyway because they still have an empty roster spot and are expected to monitor the activity of teams with players on nonguaranteed deals, according to a league source.

▪ The Celtics unraveled during the fourth quarter of their loss to the Bulls on Thursday night, with Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and coach Joe Mazzulla collecting technical fouls.

Referee crew chief Tony Brothers said in a pool interview afterward that Mazzulla was whistled for being on the floor to dispute a jump-ball call, which Mazzulla corroborated. Brothers said that Brown “questioned our integrity multiple times during that same sequence.”

Brown later relayed that he told the officials that they had called the technical foul on Mazzulla “for no reason.”

“[Referee Justin Van Duyne] said, ‘If you say it to me again, I’m going to call another tech,’ ” Brown said. “And then he called a tech. Man, get out of here. You can’t threaten guys with a technical foul. That’s not part of the game, either.”

Coach Joe Mazzulla (center) was included in a flurry of technical fouls called against the Celtics Thursday night.Andrew Burke-Stevenson for The Boston Globe

Brothers said that Tatum received a “respect-the-game technical for an overt action toward an official.” The Celtics trailed by 3 before that spree of technicals in the fourth quarter, and they couldn’t recover.

▪ Looking for a last-minute Christmas gift? Check out “The Boston Globe Story of the Celtics,” a collection of hundreds of essential articles from the Globe archives about the team.