The Boston Celtics have taken a commanding 3-0 series lead over the Dallas Mavericks with a 106-99 victory in Game 3 of the NBA Finals in Dallas on Wednesday. Now, just one win away from clinching their record 18th championship, the Celtics are in a solid position to make history.
Stellar Performances by Tatum and Brown
Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown were the game’s stars, finishing with 31 and 30 points, respectively. Their scoring prowess was pivotal in securing the win. “Stay in the moment,” Brown emphasized after the game. “Smile, appreciate everything,” he told the ABC broadcast. “I’m grateful to be here. … Just stay in the moment.”
Overcoming Early Challenges
The Celtics faced early adversity as they played without their center, Kristaps Porzingis, who was sidelined due to a left posterior tibialis dislocation. The Mavericks capitalized on his absence, quickly jumping to a 22-9 lead in the first quarter. However, the Celtics gradually narrowed the gap, making it a one-point game by the end of the quarter.
Dominance in the Third Quarter
The game remained tightly contested until the third quarter, when the Celtics found their rhythm from beyond the arc. Their hot shooting helped them build an 85-70 lead, putting the Mavericks on the back foot. Despite a valiant effort by Dallas to stage a comeback with a 22-2 run, the Celtics managed to hold their ground.
Key Moments and Mavericks’ Struggle
The Mavericks’ comeback was significantly hampered when star player Luka Doncic fouled out with about four minutes left. This marked the first time in the 25-year-old Slovenian’s career that he fouled out in a playoff game. Dallas guard Kyrie Irving put up a game-high 35 points, and Doncic added 27 points, but their efforts were not enough to overcome the Celtics.
Looking Ahead to Game 4
Game 4 is set for Friday at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. With their backs against the wall, the Mavericks must pull off a miraculous comeback to stay in the series. Conversely, the Celtics will aim to capitalize on their momentum and secure their historic 18th championship.
The Boston Celtics’ impressive performance in Game 3 has put them on the brink of making NBA history. They are well-positioned to clinch the title with solid showings from Tatum and Brown and strategic gameplay. As Jaylen Brown wisely put it, the team must “stay in the moment” and appreciate the journey.
