Celtics Triumph Over Mavericks in Game 3
The 2023-24 NBA Finals saw the Boston Celtics face off against the Dallas Mavericks. Game 3 took place at 8:30 AM on June 13th at the Mavericks’ home court, the American Airlines Center. Despite an early double-digit deficit, the Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, who combined for 61 points, rallied to win 106-99. This victory gave them a 3-0 lead in the series. Game 4 is scheduled for June 14th at 8:30 AM, also at the American Airlines Center.
Strong Start by the Mavericks
Back on their home turf, the Mavericks began with a 9-2 run. Although Al Horford’s three-pointer momentarily halted their momentum, the Celtics struggled to convert their subsequent offensive attempts. Kyrie Irving, Daniel Gafford, Luka Doncic, and Dereck Lively II quickly extended the Mavericks’ lead to double digits.
Celtics’ First-Quarter Comeback
Midway through the first quarter, with Doncic resting, the Celtics capitalized on the opportunity. Tatum and Brown led an 11-0 run, with Sam Hauser hitting a three-pointer, reducing the deficit. By the end of the first quarter, the Mavericks led by just one point, 31-30.
Second Quarter: Back-and-Forth Battle
Early in the second quarter, the Celtics took their first lead with a Brown layup. Doncic attempted to regain the lead through free throws but was unsuccessful. The Celtics tried to widen their lead through a multi-pronged attack, but Irving’s consecutive three-pointers put the Mavericks back on top. The teams traded baskets, and the Mavericks led 51-50 at halftime.
Third Quarter: Celtics Surge Ahead
The Celtics started the second half on fire, making six of their first six shots, including three-pointers from Jrue Holiday and Tatum, opening with a 16-8 run. Brown then took over, and contributions from bench players like Xavier Tillman Sr. and Hauser helped the Celtics extend their lead to double digits. The Celtics ended the third quarter with an 85-70 lead.
Mavericks’ Fourth-Quarter Rally
In the fourth quarter, Brown and Derrick White hit early three-pointers, prompting a timeout from the Mavericks. This proved effective as P.J. Washington Jr., Doncic, Lively II, and Josh Green combined for a 12-0 run, bringing the Mavericks back into contention. Doncic assisted Washington Jr. on a three-pointer, and Irving hit three free throws, narrowing the gap to a single possession. However, Doncic fouled out with 4:12 remaining, a significant blow to the Mavericks.
Celtics Hold Their Ground
The game remained tight, with Irving scoring and assisting to keep the Mavericks close. However, in the final 25 seconds, Irving missed a crucial three-pointer, and Tim Hardaway Jr.’s open three also failed to connect. The Celtics capitalized on their free-throw opportunities to secure the win, with a final score of 106-99.
Key Performances
- Jayson Tatum (Celtics): 31 points
- Jaylen Brown (Celtics): 30 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists
- Kyrie Irving (Mavericks): 35 points
- Luka Doncic (Mavericks): 27 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists
The Celtics’ victory positions them just one win away from securing the championship, while the Mavericks face the daunting task of attempting an unprecedented comeback.(Superace88)