It's just a stupid trip to the White House anyway

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) -- Basketball fans lined up at the Connecticut state Capitol to catch a glimpse of several Boston Celtics players and the team's 2008 NBA championship trophy.

Celtics star and former University of Connecticut standout Ray Allen thanked the fans on Thursday and credited them with inspiring the team to win its first title since 1986.

Celtics guards Tony Allen and Rajon Rondo, Celtics Team President Rich Gotham and Celtics veteran JoJo White were also on hand to accompany the gleaming brass trophy. They were joined by two Celtics Dancers and "Lucky," the team's mascot.

Gov. M. Jodi Rell's office invited the team to visit Connecticut after it defeated the Lakers in six games to win its 17th NBA title. Many of the fans wore Celtics jerseys and green ties.

Friday, the Celtics visit the White House and meet with President Bush.