Boston Celtics Opened Training Camp in Charleston

The team moved preseason workouts to the McAlister Field House at The Citadel for a three-day training session.

Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Basketball

Boston Celtics Opened Training Camp in Charleston

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The Boston Celtics arrived in Charleston to begin a three-day training camp at The Citadel's McAlister Field House. This session follows initial preseason workouts that started in Boston on September 29, 2026.

Why it matters

The head coach scheduled the camp to help integrate new players into the roster while utilizing the setting to study military leadership models. Moving the team away from its home facility allows for focused development in a neutral environment.

The McAlister Field House provides the Celtics with three full-length basketball courts under one roof. The site serves as a recurring destination for NBA teams, following previous practices held by the Charlotte Hornets, New York Knicks, and Philadelphia 76ers.

The players

Boston Celtics

The Boston Celtics are a professional basketball team competing in the National Basketball Association.

The Citadel

The Citadel is a public senior military college in Charleston that hosts athletic training sessions.

Charlotte Hornets

The Charlotte Hornets are a professional basketball team that previously utilized the facilities at The Citadel.

New York Knicks

The New York Knicks are a professional basketball team that held practices at The Citadel in 2023 and 2024.

Philadelphia 76ers

The Philadelphia 76ers are a professional basketball team that practiced at The Citadel in 2022.

The details

The Celtics head coach selected the location to foster team cohesion and expose players to the disciplined environment of The Citadel. The team arrived via Charleston International Airport on October 3 to prepare for the start of the intensive camp.

September 29, 2026: Celtics began preseason workouts in Boston.
Late September 2026: Charlotte Hornets trained at The Citadel.
October 3, 2026: The team arrived at Charleston International Airport.
October 4, 2026: Training camp commenced at McAlister Field House.
October 6, 2026: Training camp is scheduled to conclude.

Season Trajectory

The Celtics' visit to Charleston continues a trend of NBA teams utilizing college environments to sharpen focus before the official season begins. By prioritizing this external environment, the team aims to establish chemistry that will impact their performance throughout the upcoming season.

The short duration of the three-day camp means the team will quickly pivot back to their home schedule to finish preseason preparations. This brief residency provides a rare opportunity for local observers to witness an NBA organization utilizing regional facilities.

The takeaway

Selecting a high-discipline environment for training can help professional athletes focus on team integration and new strategies. Implementing a change of scenery before a high-pressure season is a common tactic used to build mental resilience.