BasketballLatest NewsNews

Celtics reach NBA finals with 4-0 series sweep over Pacers

The Boston Celtics secured the Eastern Conference championship on Monday with a narrow 105-102 victory over the Indiana Pacers, completing a 4-0 sweep in the series and earning a place in the NBA Finals. The Celtics will face either the Dallas Mavericks or the Minnesota Timberwolves, with the Mavericks holding a 3-0 lead in their series.

Jaylen Brown was instrumental in Boston’s win, scoring 29 points and making critical plays in the final moments. Brown tied the game at 102-102 with 2:40 left, then blocked Andrew Nembhard’s shot at the rim. He also assisted Derrick White, who hit the decisive three-pointer with 45 seconds remaining. Jayson Tatum contributed 26 points, 13 rebounds, and eight assists.

The Celtics’ victory in Indianapolis marked their seventh consecutive postseason win. Despite the absence of star guard Tyrese Haliburton, the Pacers, led by Nembhard with 24 points, 10 assists, and six rebounds, fought hard but ultimately fell short.

Boston’s head coach Joe Mazzulla praised his team for their perseverance and dedication throughout the season. “Look at all the talent, look at the players that we have. It’s really all about them, they let us coach them,” he said. Brown, named Eastern Conference Finals MVP, highlighted the team’s collective effort and focus, stating, “It’s been nothing but a grind, we haven’t skipped no steps all season.”

The Celtics, seeking their first NBA title since 2008, have an impressive 12-2 record in the postseason, having defeated the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Pacers to reach their 23rd NBA Finals in franchise history.

Pacers coach Rick Carlisle commended his team for their resilience and determination despite the series loss. “An amazing season, a magical season. The level of fight was just tremendous all the way through this,” he said, expressing optimism for the future and the raised expectations for the next season.

(Source: AFP)

Related Articles

Back to top button