Despite feeling unwell all day, Jrue Holiday came up clutch for the Boston Celtics in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals. With less than a minute remaining, Holiday converted a three-point play to give the Celtics their first lead in nearly 36 minutes. He followed this up with a crucial steal and two free throws to secure the 114-111 victory over the Indiana Pacers. This victory puts the Celtics up 3-0 in the series, with the opportunity to advance to the NBA Finals with another win on Monday. Holiday finished the game with 14 points and nine rebounds, proving his worth to the team.
While Holiday’s late-game heroics were pivotal, other players also stepped up for the Celtics. Jayson Tatum had a standout performance with 36 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, while Jaylen Brown added 24 points. Veteran player Al Horford also contributed with 23 points, including 7-of-12 on 3-pointers. The Celtics’ resilience and teamwork have propelled them to a perfect 5-0 record on the road in this season’s playoffs. Tatum praised Holiday for his championship experience and competitive spirit, highlighting the depth and strength of the team.
On the other side, the Indiana Pacers put up a valiant fight despite the absence of All-NBA guard Tyrese Haliburton, who was sidelined with a left hamstring injury. Andrew Nembhard led the Pacers with a career-high 32 points, while T.J. McConnell added 23 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. Myles Turner and Pascal Siakam also made significant contributions with 22 points each. Although the Pacers played well and held substantial leads throughout the game, they ultimately fell short in the closing moments against the Celtics.
Indiana coach Rick Carlisle commended his team’s effort and resilience, vowing to come back stronger in Game 4. The Pacers received strong support from a sellout crowd, but Holiday’s late-game performance silenced the fans and secured the win for Boston. Despite facing adversity, the Pacers remain determined to bounce back and push the series further. The intense competition and high stakes of the Eastern Conference finals have created an electrifying atmosphere for both teams and fans.
Boston’s ability to overcome obstacles and stay composed under pressure has been a defining factor in their success throughout the playoffs. With one more win, the Celtics can secure a spot in the NBA Finals for the second time in three years. Tatum emphasized the team’s focus and determination to seize the opportunity in front of them. The Celtics’ depth, resilience, and leadership have been key factors in their strong performance against the Pacers, showcasing their potential to compete at the highest level in the NBA. As the series progresses, both teams will continue to strive for victory and showcase their skills on the court.
