Boston kicked off the NBA Finals with a big win over Dallas, scoring 107 to 89 at TD Garden on Thursday night.
Teamwork Shines in Boston’s Victory
This 18-point victory is one of the largest Game 1 wins in the last three decades. Interestingly, both Golden State and Los Angeles teams who had similar victories went on to win their championships in five games. Boston’s teamwork was evident as multiple players contributed significantly.
Jaylen Brown led with 22 points, Kristaps Porzingis added 20 from the bench, Jayson Tatum scored 16, and Derrick White chipped in with 15. In total, six Celtics players hit double figures.
“To be honest I was nervous… in an anxious way… it’s surreal being in the Finals,” Tatum confessed about his feelings before the game. He reflected on how they fell short last season but are determined this time around.
"To be honest I was nervous… in an anxious way… it's surreal being in the Finals."
Jayson Tatum gets honest about 'wake up call' last season when the Celtics fell short of the Finals, and the nerves he felt before the game
— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics)
The Celtics dominated early, leading by as much as 29 points in the first half. But Tatum remains cautious: “Getting back to this point and being here is really a big deal,” he said. “But two years ago we won the first game and we know the outcome of that series. We still have a lot of work to do.”
Porzingis’ Comeback Boosts Confidence
Kristaps Porzingis felt validated after his performance following a knee injury that kept him out since April. “Tonight was affirmation to myself that I’m pretty good,” he said after blocking three shots during the game. “I’m not perfect but I can play like this and I can add to this team.”
We believe confidence makes all the difference.
Luka Doncic Remains Optimistic
Despite losing by such a large margin, Luka Doncic doesn’t think it will affect Dallas’ morale. The Mavericks have lost their opening games before but bounced back each time.
“Either you lose or you win,” Doncic stated simply. “First to four, we’ve got to focus on the next game.” He had an impressive individual performance with 30 points and ten rebounds but managed only one assist.
Kyrie Irving struggled under pressure from Boston fans who booed him throughout, scoring just twelve points. Reflecting on it he said: “I thought it was going to be a little louder in here… It’s not the first time I’ve lost in Boston; I don’t want to make it a habit.”
