Big-Time Js Deliver Big-Time Plays in Epic Game 1 Win Over Indy Celtics 133 Pacers 128 OT

Tatum erupts for 31 in second half as C's steal home-court advantage

Brown adds 29, Smart chips in 20 as Celtics rally from 15 down to stun Pacers

BOSTON – A back-and-forth thriller ended in favor of the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night, as they outlasted the Indiana Pacers 133-128 in overtime in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series.

Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown came up big for the Celtics in the clutch, combining for 60 points on 23-of-49 shooting. Tatum scored 15 of his team-high 31 points in the fourth quarter and overtime, while Brown added 12 of his 29 in the final frame.

Marcus Smart also played a key role for the Celtics, finishing with 20 points, 12 assists, and 7 rebounds. His 3-pointer with 2:22 remaining in regulation tied the game at 118-118 and forced overtime.

The Pacers were led by Domantas Sabonis, who had a monster game with 30 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists. Malcolm Brogdon added 27 points, while Caris LeVert chipped in 21. However, the Pacers couldn't overcome the Celtics' late-game heroics.

The Celtics now have a 1-0 lead in the series and will look to take a 2-0 advantage when they host Game 2 on Friday night. The Pacers, meanwhile, will need to regroup and find a way to steal a game in Boston.

Conclusion

In a game that featured plenty of twists and turns, it was the Celtics' young stars who ultimately made the biggest plays. Tatum and Brown stepped up in the clutch and led the Celtics to a hard-fought victory. The Pacers showed plenty of grit and determination, but they couldn't match the Celtics' firepower down the stretch.

The Celtics will now head home with a 1-0 lead in the series. They will look to take a commanding 2-0 advantage when they host Game 2 on Friday night. The Pacers, meanwhile, will need to find a way to steal a game in Boston if they want to stay alive in the series.