McCollum, a journalism major, felt a responsibility to inform Green of his Finals prediction in person rather than the forward being surprised to learn McCollum’s position on national television. Being a bystander amid the conversation, McCollum and Green allowed Yahoo Sports to publish the details of their conversation. “I’ve got to tell you this. I picked Boston to win Game 3, I picked you guys to win Game 4. But ultimately, I’ve got the Celtics winning the Finals,” McCollum told Green. “I just want you to hear it from me first before you hear me say it on TV.” Green, without hesitation, responded, “That’s fine. Those Celtics will still be ringless just like you. Respect.”