In a remarkable twist during Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals, Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics didn’t shy away from voicing his surprise at the Indiana Pacers’ unexpected performance. The game saw the Pacers’ supporting cast stepping up in the absence of their star player, Tyrese Haliburton, and taking an 18-point lead before ultimately collapsing in the fourth quarter to lose 114-111.
Brown humorously likened the Pacers’ players to NBA legend Michael Jordan, a testament to how out of the ordinary their unexpected performance seemed. “Some of those guys turned into fu*king Michael Jordan or whatever, and we were like, ‘What is going on’,” Brown candidly remarked about the Celtics’ initial reaction to the Pacers’ unexpected surge.
Jaylen Brown:
“Some of those guys turned into fu*king Michael Jordan or whatever.”
(via @CelticsCLNS)
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) May 26, 2024
Brown’s comments were likely directed towards guards Andrew Nembhard and T.J. McConnell, who both delivered standout performances. Nembhard scored an impressive 32 points, grabbed four rebounds, and provided nine assists. He was highly efficient, making 12 of his 21 shots, including 4 of 7 from beyond the arc, and sinking all four of his free throws. McConnell, coming off the bench, added 23 points along with nine rebounds and six assists, shooting at a notable 58.8% clip.
These unexpected performances from the Pacers’ backcourt duo were well above their season averages, catching the Celtics off guard. The Celtics, who were likely anticipating a less challenging game without Haliburton, found themselves in a surprising struggle against an energized Indiana squad.
Despite the unexpected challenge, the Celtics demonstrated remarkable resilience. They faced an 18-point deficit midway through the third quarter but refused to concede. Leading the charge was Jayson Tatum, who scored 16 of his 36 points in the second half and dished out four assists in the crucial fourth quarter, making pivotal plays when it mattered most.
Jaylen Brown played a significant supporting role, contributing 24 points on 10-of-18 shooting. Tatum’s unexpected performance was complemented by his 10 rebounds and eight assists, while he shot 52.2% from the field, including a sharp 5-of-10 from three-point range. Veteran Al Horford also had a standout game, scoring 23 points and hitting 7-of-12 three-pointers. Additionally, Jrue Holiday and Derrick White combined for 17 points, solidifying the team’s overall effort.
A critical moment came in the game’s closing seconds when Holiday’s stellar defense thwarted Nembhard’s attempt to drive in transition. Holiday stripped the ball from Nembhard, securing possession for Boston. He then made crucial free throws, extending the Celtics’ lead to three points and sealing the victory.
With this victory, the Celtics have taken a commanding 3-0 lead in the series and appear poised to advance to the finals after Monday’s Game 4. The potential absence of Tyrese Haliburton in the upcoming game only adds to Boston’s advantage. Meanwhile, the dynamic duo of Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum is hitting its stride at a crucial time, boosting the Celtics’ confidence as they eye their record 18th championship.
This game showcased the unpredictability and excitement of playoff basketball. The Pacers’ unexpected surge without their star player highlighted the depth and potential of their roster, even if it ultimately ended in disappointment. For the Celtics, this game was a testament to their championship mentality and ability to overcome adversity. Jaylen Brown’s candid remarks add a human element to the high-stakes environment of professional basketball, reminding fans and analysts alike that even the best teams can be caught off guard.
The Celtics’ resilience and ability to adapt in real-time will serve them well as they push deeper into the playoffs. As they prepare for what looks like an inevitable trip to the finals, the lessons learned from this challenging game will undoubtedly strengthen their resolve and readiness for whatever comes next.
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