Celtics Secure Title with Dominant Win
The Boston Celtics showcased their dominance with a sweeping victory at home, leading by 21 points at halftime and ultimately defeating the Dallas Mavericks 106-88. The Celtics won the series 4-1, capturing their historic 18th NBA championship and surpassing the Lakers for the most titles in NBA history. Jaylen Brown, who scored 21 points, was named Finals MVP.
Return to Glory After 16 Years
In 2008, the “Big Three” of Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, and Paul Pierce led the Celtics to their 17th championship. Sixteen years later, on the same day, the “Jay Team” of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown combined for 52 points, leading the Celtics back to glory.
Unstoppable Season Performance
The Celtics were impeccable this season, finishing the regular season with a league-best record of 64-18. In the playoffs, they defeated the Heat, Cavaliers, Pacers, and Mavericks, securing the championship with a 16-3 postseason record and an average margin of victory of 8.1 points per game.
| Regular Season Record | 64-18 |
|---|---|
| Playoff Record | 16-3 |
| Average Margin of Victory | 8.1 |
Tatum’s Heroics
Jayson Tatum, determined not to disappoint the home fans again after losing in the finals to the Warriors two years ago and the Eastern Conference Finals to the Heat last year, delivered an outstanding performance. He scored a game-high 31 points, dished out 11 assists, and grabbed 8 rebounds. Tatum expressed his joy, saying, “I’m so happy we did it. This is definitely a night I’ll never forget. These past seven years of ups and downs and criticisms, now it’s all worth it.”
Team Effort and Depth
The Celtics’ success was a result of a total team effort. Alongside the matured performances of Tatum and Brown, the backcourt duo of Jrue Holiday and Derrick White provided strong support on both ends of the floor. Kristaps Porzingis added depth to the frontcourt, and even in his absence due to injury, the veteran Al Horford stepped up to fill the void.
Horford’s Dream Realized
At 38, Al Horford, who has endured 17 seasons and 186 playoff games, finally achieved his dream of winning a championship. The achievement was an emotional moment for him. Coach Joe Mazzulla, at 35, overcame doubts and earned the players’ trust, becoming the youngest coach to win a championship since Bill Russell in 1969.
Mavericks Fall Short
The Mavericks, who won their first championship in 2011, made another finals appearance this year. Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving played over 40 minutes each, combining for 43 points. Despite their efforts, they could not turn the tide, leaving them to regroup and aim for a comeback next season.(747Live)
