In an electrifying Game 3 of the 2024 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics overcame a harrowing fourth-quarter scare to edge out the Dallas Mavericks 106-99, pushing them within one win of their record 18th NBA championship. With this victory, Boston takes a commanding 3-0 series lead, placing them in a historically favorable position as no NBA team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit.
The Celtics came out strong, dominating the early stages of the game and establishing a formidable 21-point lead by the end of the third quarter. The first half saw Boston executing their game plan flawlessly, with star player Jayson Tatum leading the charge. Tatum’s 31-point performance, coupled with Jaylen Brown’s solid 30 points, underscored the Celtics’ offensive prowess.
However, the Mavericks, cheered on by the fervent home crowd at the American Airlines Center, refused to go down quietly. Luka Dončić, determined to keep Dallas in the series, spearheaded a spirited comeback in the fourth quarter. Dončić’s 27 points and 6 assists showcased his all-around brilliance, cutting Boston’s lead down to just 5 points with under two minutes left on the clock.
The tension was palpable as Dallas capitalized on a series of Boston turnovers and defensive lapses. Mavericks’ forward Tim Hardaway Jr. hit a crucial three-pointer, bringing the score to 101-99, putting the Celtics’ victory in jeopardy. But Boston’s resilience shone through in the final moments. Key defensive stops and clutch free throws by Marcus Smart sealed the win for the Celtics, preserving their lead and securing the pivotal Game 3 victory.
“Our guys showed tremendous grit tonight,” Celtics coach Ime Udoka said post-game. “We knew Dallas would make a run, especially with the kind of talent they have. But we trusted our defense and made big plays when it mattered most.”
With this win, Boston is now on the cusp of history. A victory in Game 4, scheduled for Friday at 8:30 p.m. ET in Dallas (ABC), would not only secure their 18th championship, breaking the tie with the Los Angeles Lakers for the most in NBA history but also complete a rare Finals sweep.
As the Celtics prepare for what could be a historic night, fans and analysts alike are buzzing with anticipation. The possibility of witnessing NBA history adds an extra layer of excitement to Game 4, where Boston’s quest for greatness continues.
For more detailed game highlights and analysis, visit the official NBA website here (timeline)and catch up on all the action leading up to this critical juncture in the series.
Game 4 of the 2024 NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks is scheduled for Friday at 8:30 p.m. ET, airing on ABC. Will the Celtics clinch their record 18th title, or will the Mavericks mount an incredible comeback? Tune in to find out.
