By: Jasmine Bowen and Trenton Walden
Game 1 of the Boston Celtics vs Brooklyn Nets series was much anticipated and didn’t disappoint. It started off with the Celtics taking an early lead in the first quarter, but then the gap closed at the end of the first half with both teams tied 61-61. During the 3rd quarter, the Celtics started to take the game over with incredible defense holding the Nets to 24 points while they pushed the pace of the game gaining an 85-96 lead, led by Jayson Tatum’s incredible 2-way play. In the 4th quarter, while it looked like the Celtics were going to run away with the game, Kyrie Irving started with a tough jump shot over Tatum changing the momentum of the game. Irving went on an 8-0 run, putting the Nets back in the game. Both teams started trading buckets with each other until it became a one-point game with the Nets in the lead. Celtics began to turn the pressure up with their defense leading to an iso play between Kevin Durant and Tatum. Tatum forced a contested 3 from KD leading to a turnover. With 12 seconds left, the Celtics had possession.
Kyrie once again proved why he’s still one of the best scorers in the league, even after his vaccine controversy earlier in the season that led to him missing most of the regular season. Irving started the game slow but ended the game with an incredibly strong second half. During Kyrie’s takeover, you can see him trash talking back at the Celtics fans who used to root for him, giving them the finger after making tough buckets on not just one occasion. This isn’t the first time he has shown animosity towards his previous team. After a messy split between Kyrie and the Celtics there still seems to be bad blood. The comments from Celtics fans fired Irving up, leading to 39 points and some backtalk. Irving threw up the middle finger and cursed at the fans.
Not only did he have an offensive presence, he played great defense and grabbed some crucial rebounds. Keep in mind, Irving is doing all this while practicing Ramadan which prevented him from eating or drinking during the game. Although it was a great performance, Tatum somewhat took the spotlight.
Jayson Tatum was the saving grace for the Boston Celtics when he made a buzzer-beating layup and was a team leader ending the game with 31 points. Tatum made multiple tough shots throughout the game including a 27 ft. three pointer in the 2nd quarter and 22 ft step back jumpshot. Nearing the end of the game, things were looking tight when the Nets led 114-113. With 15 seconds left, KD shot a 28 ft. three point shot and missed. With 12 seconds left, Al Horford had a defensive rebound and Tatum clutched up with a layup finishing the game with a 114-115 win for the Celtics. Throughout the season, Tatum has shown growth in his decision and play making skills which has been impactful in the Celtics performance thus far.
Postgame Reports 
Great article!
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