By Moselaunch 
Growing up near Boston in the late 1980s and early 1990s, I naturally became a fan of the Boston Celtics. Back then, the team, led by Larry Bird, was nothing short of legendary. Larry Bird even lived nearby, and seeing him in person was like witnessing magic—whether it was in the local neighborhood or at the Boston Garden. That era left an unforgettable mark on me as a Celtics fan.
As an editor, it’s essential to make choices that reflect the publication’s vision, rather than just personal preferences. However, when an opportunity arises that aligns with your own passions, it’s hard to say no. So, when Cate Matthews suggested including Jaylen Brown as a cover star for this year’s TIME100 Next issue, making him the first Celtic to grace the cover since Larry Bird nearly 40 years ago, I didn’t hesitate to agree.
This season, Jaylen Brown, alongside Jayson Tatum, helped lead the Celtics to their latest NBA Championship. But Brown’s influence stretches far beyond the court. This past August, he launched the Boston XChange with the mission of promoting innovation and economic empowerment in underrepresented communities. His vision now reaches far beyond Boston. As Brad Stevens, the Celtics’ General Manager, says, “I believe Brown’s impact off the court will ultimately be greater than his accomplishments on it.”
The TIME100 Next list, now in its fifth year, was created to highlight leaders who are not only making waves in their industries but doing so at an early stage in life. At just 27 years old, Jaylen Brown exemplifies this by breaking the mold and defying traditional power structures. Like many on this year’s list, he doesn’t wait for permission to create change, and his leadership style reflects a new era of influence.
Brown is featured on the cover of TIME100 Next alongside pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter and social leader Aisha Nyandoro, whose Magnolia Mother’s Trust is proving how guaranteed-income initiatives can succeed. The diversity of leaders in this year’s edition underscores the range of change-makers today, including health, climate, business, and sports trailblazers. It’s not just about who’s making headlines but also those who will shape the future in profound ways.
The stories in this year’s TIME100 Next edition reflect the evolving nature of leadership, where voices like Jaylen Brown’s are driving change both on and off the court. His commitment to social justice and economic equity is creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond his athletic prowess.