Celtics Outlast Pacers in Game 1 of East Finals

Tatum Scores 36 and Brown Hits Clutch 3-Pointer to Fuel Celtics' Comeback

Boston Celtics 114, Indiana Pacers 111

May 21, 2024 - Boston, MA - The Boston Celtics are one win away from advancing to the NBA Finals after a thrilling 114-111 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Tuesday night at TD Garden.

Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 36 points, including a crucial layup with 11.3 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter that gave Boston a 113-111 lead. Al Horford added 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Jaylen Brown contributed 19 points, including a clutch 3-pointer with 3:07 left that put the Celtics up 108-105.

The Pacers were led by Malcolm Brogdon's 31 points, but they were unable to overcome the Celtics' late surge. Caris LeVert added 23 points, and Myles Turner chipped in with 18 points and 13 rebounds.

The Celtics now have a 3-0 lead in the series and can clinch a berth in the NBA Finals with a win in Game 4 on Thursday night in Boston.

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