In their pursuit of Banner 18, the Celtics are recognizing champions from other New England sports teams, shining the light on their role in the community.

After Bruins legend Zdeno Chara received a “Heroes Among Us” award during Game 1 of the NBA Finals last week, the Celtics put the Patriots up next in Game 2 on Sunday.

Recently retired special teamer Matthew Slater, now an advisor to head coach Jerod Mayo, stood at center court as the night’s Hero during the second quarter. Celtics fans showed their love to the three-time Super Bowl champion.

The jumbotron listed Slater’s community accolades: “Mentor for New England area youth, encourages positive lifestyles,” “Committed to bettering the lives of foster families,” and “Provides support and resources to underserved communities.”

The award is given during every Celtics home game to an “outstanding individual who made exceptional and lasting contributions to their communities.”

After announcing his retirement in February, former head coach Bill Belichick called Slater a “once-in-a-lifetime person,” and the “best core special teams player in NFL history.”

Slater’s community efforts were recognized throughout his 16-year NFL career. The special teamer earned the Bart Starr Award, given to the player who “best exemplifies outstanding character and leadership in the home, on the field, and in the community,” in 2017, and the Art Rooney Award, which is given in recognition of outstanding sportsmanship on the playing field, in 2021.

Last year, Slater and his wife Shahrzard hosted a Christmas celebration at Gillette Stadium, welcoming 30 children from local foster care organizations to the Cross Pavilion through the Slater Family Foundation.

The December celebration came months after Slater and a handful of teammates stopped by a Providence elementary school for an event focused on helping improve attendance and encourage learning.

Slater was also known for rallying his teammates in the locker room after wins with his famous “AWW YEAH!” saying.