Celtics Outlast Pacers in Overtime Thriller, Take 2-1 Series Lead

Game 3 Recap: Boston Digs Deep for Dramatic Victory

INDIANAPOLIS - The Boston Celtics extended their grip on the Eastern Conference semifinals with a hard-fought 133-128 overtime victory over the Indiana Pacers on Saturday night. It was a tale of two halves, with the Pacers dominating the first half behind Tyrese Haliburton's 22 points. However, the Celtics stormed back in the second, outscoring the Pacers 39-22 in the third quarter to force overtime.

Jayson Tatum Leads Celtics' Charge

Jayson Tatum led the Celtics' comeback, finishing with a team-high 31 points, nine rebounds, and six assists. Jaylen Brown added 30 points and 10 rebounds, while Malcolm Brogdon chipped in 25 points off the bench. For the Pacers, Haliburton's 33 points were not enough to secure a victory.

Overtime Drama

The game went into overtime tied at 118-118. The Celtics took control early in the extra period, with Tatum and Brown each hitting clutch shots. The Pacers fought back, but a driving layup by Marcus Smart with just over two minutes remaining proved to be the game-winner.

Series Outlook

With the win, the Celtics take a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series. Game 4 is set for Monday night in Indianapolis, with the Celtics having a chance to take a commanding 3-1 lead. The Pacers, meanwhile, will need to regroup and find a way to match the Celtics' intensity and execution.