Celtics post hilarious solar eclipse post featuring Luke Kornet

Forgot to pick up a box of fancy eclipse sunglasses before the solar event Monday afternoon? Fear not, New Englanders, Luke Kornet to the rescue.

The Celtics posted a photo to their Instagram account Monday morning showing Kornet blocking the sun and moon with his hands — a reference to the center’s signature move (other than the dab).

The defensive technique – sometimes called “Kornet Contest” or, more appropriately, “The Eclipse” – is used to block the shooter’s view of the basket during a three-point attempt. And while he admits it might sound a bit ridiculous, the success rate is quite high.

In a recent game against the Phoenix Suns on March 9, the Kornet Contest was 3 for 3. “The eclipse was made for the Sun,” the big man told Abby Chin of NBC Sports Boston in an interview post-match. “You know what I’m saying? There’s something there, obviously.

This closing operation, which has been part of Kornet’s arsenal since 2022, is particularly effective given its size. The 7-foot-1 center (combined with his seven-and-a-half-foot wingspan) applies unique pressure on his opponents even when he can’t get to the three-point line in time.

“I think it’s something he’s good at and he’s watched a lot of film,” coach Joe Mazzulla told Jared Weiss of The Athletic in 2022. “I think it’s a good way to compete without running into a fence. It’s a solid tactic, so it works.