Montreal North Erupts: Luguentz Dort Celebrates NBA Championship with Hometown Parade
Montreal North was awash in a sea of cheers and celebration on Thursday, August 21, 2025, as Oklahoma City Thunder swingman Luguentz Dort returned to his roots to celebrate his NBA championship victory. The streets of his hometown transformed into a vibrant parade route, showcasing the deep connection between the NBA star and his community.
A Champion's Return: Bringing the Larry O'Brien Trophy Home
Dort, a defensive stalwart for the Oklahoma City Thunder, brought the coveted Larry O'Brien Trophy back to Montreal North, embarking on a festive parade that captivated hundreds of adoring fans. Cruising in a Lamborghini, Dort proudly hoisted the trophy high, with a Haitian marching band providing an electrifying soundtrack to the joyous occasion.
The parade wound its way through rue Charleroi, culminating at Parc Pilon, where even more fans eagerly awaited their hometown hero. The atmosphere was electric, with dozens of children, many sporting Dort's OKC No. 5 jersey, lining up for a chance to be on the court at Parc Pilon.
Community Pride and Inspiration
The outpouring of support was evident through the signs held by fans, proclaiming "Lu the champ" and "Mtl-Nord fier de son champion" (Montreal North proud of its champion), accompanied by enthusiastic chants of "Luuuuu!" Addressing the crowd, Dort emphasized his desire to share his success with his community, stating, "Any success I have, I want to share with my people. There's not a lot of us that get to make it to the big stage. As soon as we won, I was like, 'Yeah, I gotta come back home, especially where I grew up.'"
Key takeaways from Dort's homecoming:
- Sharing Success: Dort's immediate desire to celebrate with his hometown underscores his strong community ties.
- Inspiration for Youth: He serves as a powerful role model for aspiring young athletes in Montreal, demonstrating that dreams are achievable regardless of humble beginnings.
- Underdog Spirit: Dort's journey, having gone undrafted in 2019 before becoming an All-NBA defensive first-team player, resonates deeply with the spirit of perseverance.
Before the parade, Dort also signed Montreal's "Livre d'Or" (Golden Book) during a special ceremony, further cementing his place in the city's history. His celebration was not just about an NBA title; it was a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the inspiring journey of a local hero.