Celtics Dominate Mavericks to Secure 18th NBA Championship
The Boston Celtics, though unable to sweep the Dallas Mavericks in four games, set an early tone in Game 5 of the NBA Finals. The starting five collaborated to establish a 21-point lead by halftime. Star player Jayson Tatum surpassed his idol Kobe Bryant to become the all-time leading scorer in playoff history for players under 27. The Celtics triumphed with a final score of 106-88, claiming their first championship in 16 years and surpassing the Lakers with a record 18 NBA titles.
Celtics’ Explosive Start
The Celtics aimed to close out the series in Game 5 and wasted no time doing so. Jrue Holiday opened with a quick 6 points, and veteran Al Horford added a three-pointer, contributing to a 9-2 run. The Mavericks struggled, hitting just one of their first nine attempts, with Luka Doncic scoring his first points with 7:02 left in the first quarter.
Key Moments in the First Half
Boston’s Kristaps Porzingis returned from injury and received a warm welcome from fans. Dallas managed to narrow the gap to one point at the end of the first quarter, but Jaylen Brown’s dunk rejuvenated the Celtics. Sam Hauser and Jayson Tatum followed with key steals, sparking a 9-0 run that extended their lead to 28-18.
In the second quarter, Tatum’s high-arching shot and subsequent free throw pushed the lead to 15 points. Despite efforts from Dallas’ Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington to close the gap, Boston quickly regained control with Brown’s three-pointer and Derrick White’s long-range shot, ending the half with a 60-42 lead. Payton Pritchard’s buzzer-beater three-pointer from 50 feet out further solidified Boston’s dominance.
Tatum’s Record-Breaking Performance
Tatum’s exceptional first half included 16 points, 9 assists, and zero turnovers. His playoff points total reached 2,695, surpassing Kobe Bryant’s record for players under 27. This impressive feat underscored his pivotal role in the Celtics’ success.
Celtics Maintain Control in the Second Half
Entering the second half with a 21-point lead, Boston continued to dominate. The team’s relaxed yet focused demeanor allowed them to maintain a substantial lead. An amusing moment occurred when Brown joked about White’s appearance, lightening the mood after White lost a tooth in a collision.
Mavericks’ Final Efforts
Despite a 19-point lead at the end of the third quarter, Dallas made one last push in the fourth. Tatum responded with another 11 points, finishing the game with 31 points, 11 assists, 8 rebounds, and 2 steals. With 2:37 remaining, Dallas benched their stars, conceding defeat. Kyrie Irving shared embraces with Celtics players and coach Joe Mazzulla, acknowledging Boston’s victory.
Historic Win for the Celtics
The Celtics’ win marks their fourth championship since 2008. Like previous titles, they clinched the series at home after losing an away “closeout” game. This victory not only ends a 16-year championship drought but also cements their status as the most successful franchise in NBA history, surpassing the Lakers with 18 titles.
FAQ
1. How many NBA championships have the Celtics won?
The Boston Celtics have won 18 NBA championships, the most in NBA history.
2. Who did Jayson Tatum surpass to become the all-time leading scorer in the playoffs for players under 27?
Jayson Tatum surpassed Kobe Bryant to become the all-time leading scorer in the playoffs for players under 27.
3. When was the last time the Celtics won an NBA championship before this year?
The Celtics last won an NBA championship in 2008.(FADA888)