The Boston Celtics clinched their 18th championship by defeating the Dallas Mavericks 106-88, wrapping up the NBA Finals with a 4-1 series victory.
Jaylen Brown of the Celtics was honored as the Most Valuable Player (MVP) due to his stellar defensive performance against Dallas’ Luka Doncic, the regular-season scoring leader.
Despite a 122-84 win by Dallas on Friday that extended the series, the Celtics, playing at home in Boston, were spurred to victory by Jayson Tatum’s impressive 31-point effort.
This championship marks the Celtics’ first in 16 years, pushing them ahead of the Los Angeles Lakers, who have 17 titles, in the all-time standings.
“It was a full team effort,” said MVP Brown, who contributed 21 points. “I share this with my brothers and my partner in crime Jayson Tatum – he was with me the whole way so we share this together.”
It was a tough night for Dallas’ Kyrie Irving, a former Celtics player, who was heckled by the Boston crowd and managed only 15 points.
The Celtics dominated early, holding a 67-46 lead at halftime, with Irving and Doncic combining for just 14 points in the first quarter.
Dallas made a slight comeback in the third quarter, but the Celtics maintained a 19-point lead going into the final quarter, sealing their victory.
The @celtics are the 2023-24 NBA Champions! pic.twitter.com/UrZtUG0jwY
— NBA (@NBA) June 18, 2024
‘Celtics find a way to get job done’ – analysis
Sam Harris, BBC Sport Journalist
Having had the best regular season and an impressive playoff run, the Boston Celtics have rightfully earned their 18th championship banner.
Despite a setback in game four with a heavy loss, the Celtics managed to secure the win at home.
This triumph is the result of hard work and strong team mentality, along with bold decisions from the front office.
Franchise star Jayson Tatum, who has faced much scrutiny, played a crucial role, showcasing his playmaking abilities and leadership.
Jaylen Brown also played a significant role, acting as the series’ momentum controller, ensuring the Mavericks couldn’t stage a comeback, aside from game four.
The Celtics’ success extends beyond the court. After losing the 2023 Eastern Conference final to the Miami Heat, head of basketball operations Brad Stevens made bold moves by trading for Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, both key to Boston’s success.
With contributions from Derrick White and Al Horford, the team created a championship-winning formula.
The fear that once haunted the Celtics in past playoff match-ups has vanished. While head coach Joe Mazzulla will look to refine certain aspects to sustain this success and potentially build a dynasty, Boston can celebrate being at the top of the NBA.
The Celtics can take pride in their accomplishment, knowing they have solidified their status as champions.
