Boston Celtics secure record 18th NBA Championship with Game 5 win over Mavericks
The Boston Celtics clinched their league-record 18th NBA championship in dominant fashion, defeating the Dallas Mavericks 106-88 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals on Monday night (Tuesday morning, Philippine Time) at TD Garden.
Jayson Tatum led the charge for Boston with an outstanding performance, recording 31 points, 11 assists, and eight rebounds. His all-around play set the tone for the Celtics’ offense and provided the spark needed to secure the victory.
Jaylen Brown, who was instrumental throughout the series, was named NBA Finals MVP. He added 21 points, eight rebounds, and six assists in the clinching game. Brown’s consistency and leadership were pivotal in Boston’s impressive playoff run, which saw them complete a 16-3 record.
Jrue Holiday contributed significantly with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Derrick White chipped in 14 points. Their efforts ensured that Boston maintained control throughout the game, wrapping up the best-of-seven series on their second opportunity.
Despite a valiant effort from Luka Doncic, who paced the Mavericks with 28 points and 12 rebounds, Dallas was unable to overcome the Celtics’ relentless pressure. Doncic also struggled with turnovers, committing seven in the game. Kyrie Irving added 15 points and nine assists, and Josh Green netted 14 points, but it wasn’t enough to stave off elimination.
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla, in only his second season at the helm, made history by becoming the youngest coach since Bill Russell in 1969 to lead a team to an NBA championship. At just 35 years old, Mazzulla’s achievement is a testament to his leadership and the strong team dynamics he has cultivated.
Boston never trailed in the game, feeding off the energy of the raucous TD Garden crowd. The Celtics built a commanding lead, stretching it to as much as 26 points at one stage. Their defensive intensity and efficient offense kept the Mavericks at bay throughout the contest.
The victory not only marked the Celtics’ 18th championship but also celebrated the 16th anniversary of their last title. The win cements Boston’s status as the most successful franchise in NBA history, surpassing the Los Angeles Lakers.
As the Celtics bask in their historic triumph, the focus will inevitably shift to the future. With a young core led by Tatum and Brown, and a capable coach in Mazzulla, Boston appears poised to contend for more titles in the coming years.
