Celtics Edge Mavericks, Take 3-0 Lead in NBA Finals

Boston Holds Off Comeback Attempt, One Win from Title

The Boston Celtics defeated the Dallas Mavericks 106-99 in Game 3 of the 2024 NBA Finals, taking a commanding 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.

The Celtics survived a spirited comeback attempt from the Mavericks, who trailed by 20 points in the third quarter but rallied to cut the deficit to just five points with less than five minutes remaining. However, Boston held on to the lead, thanks in part to a clutch three-pointer from Jayson Tatum and a key defensive stop from Marcus Smart.

Tatum led the way for the Celtics with 29 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, while Jaylen Brown added 28 points and seven rebounds. Luka Doncic paced the Mavericks with 27 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists, but he was not able to prevent Dallas from falling into a 3-0 hole.

With the victory, the Celtics moved one win away from their 18th NBA championship. They will have the chance to clinch the title in Game 4 in Dallas on Friday night.