Upon arrival at Boston Airport, the desolation here starkly contrasted with the bustling Portland Airport.
What was impressive was that the previous slogans attacking the Portland Trail Blazers had all vanished.
The airport staff, upon seeing the Trail Blazers players, all behaved with a sense of awe, their demeanor carried a hint of respect.
This time, the team's hotel was booked by the Trail Blazers themselves, opting for the Sheraton Hotel on the South Bank, close to the Boston Garden.
From there, it was just a five-minute drive to the Boston Garden, no longer having to endure the city's evening rush hour congestion.
Upon arrival by car, the hotel staff were much more respectful, gone was their prior indifference and arrogance.
Jack Ramsey said, "Indeed, only fists and victory can teach people humility and manners."