In a thrilling game that came down to the wire, Derrick White emerged as the hero for the Boston Celtics, sinking a tie-breaking 3-pointer with 43 seconds left to secure a 105-102 victory over the Indiana Pacers. The win completed a 4-0 sweep for the Celtics, sending them to the Eastern Conference finals for the second time.
Despite a slow start, White came up big when it mattered most, delivering the shot that will be remembered forever in Boston. His teammate Jaylen Brown, who was named the Eastern Conference finals MVP, praised White for his clutch performance, highlighting the team’s chemistry and readiness for crucial moments.
The Pacers put up a tough fight, with Andrew Nembhard leading the charge with 24 points, 10 assists, and six rebounds. However, it was the Celtics’ resilience and ability to make key plays down the stretch that ultimately sealed the victory.
The Celtics will now face either Dallas or Minnesota in the Eastern Conference finals, with the Mavericks holding a 3-0 lead in their series. Boston’s journey to the finals has been marked by a seven-game winning streak, including impressive road wins and clutch performances in elimination games.
Coach Rick Carlisle commended his team for their effort and resilience throughout the playoffs, emphasizing the Celtics’ ability to make crucial plays when it mattered most. The victory was a testament to the team’s determination and ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations.