Jrue Holiday Leads Celtics To Commanding 3-0 Series Lead

Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard celebrates in front of Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) after making a three-point basket during the first half of Game 3 of the NBA Eastern Conference basket

In a thrilling Eastern Conference finals matchup, the Boston Celtics secured a crucial 114-111 victory over the Indiana Pacers, taking a commanding 3-0 series lead. Despite battling illness throughout the day, Celtics guard Jrue Holiday delivered a standout performance when it mattered most.

Holiday's late-game heroics proved pivotal as he converted a three-point play, made a crucial steal, and sealed the victory with two free throws in the final seconds. His resilience and clutch plays silenced the raucous Indiana crowd and propelled the Celtics to a perfect 5-0 record on the road in this season's playoffs.

While Holiday shone brightly in the closing moments, his teammates also made significant contributions. Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 36 points, while Jaylen Brown and Al Horford added 24 and 23 points, respectively. The collective effort of the Celtics showcased their depth and determination to secure a spot in the NBA Finals.

Celtics hold 3-0 series lead over Pacers.

Jrue Holiday's late-game heroics lead Celtics to victory.

Tatum scores 36 points, Brown and Horford contribute 24 and 23 points.

Nembhard scores career-high 32 points for Pacers.

Celtics remain undefeated on the road in playoffs.

Pacers missing Haliburton due to injury.

Indiana shows resilience but falls short in closely contested game.

Celtics focused on securing Finals berth in Game 4.

Intense matchup showcases competitive playoff spirit.

Both teams gearing up for Game 4 showdown.

Despite a valiant effort from the Pacers, who were missing star guard Tyrese Haliburton due to injury, they fell short in a closely contested game. Andrew Nembhard led Indiana with a career-high 32 points, supported by strong performances from T.J. McConnell, Myles Turner, and Pascal Siakam.

Indiana's early lead and resilient play kept the game competitive, but Boston's tenacity and Holiday's late-game brilliance ultimately proved decisive. The Pacers, led by coach Rick Carlisle, remain determined to bounce back in Game 4 and extend the series.

As the Celtics look ahead to Game 4 with the opportunity to secure a Finals berth, Tatum emphasized the team's focus and readiness to meet the challenge. With one win separating them from the Finals, Boston remains poised and determined to capitalize on their special opportunity.

Despite the absence of Haliburton and the challenges faced by both teams, the Celtics and Pacers delivered an intense and captivating matchup that showcased the competitive spirit of playoff basketball. With Game 4 looming, both teams are gearing up for another thrilling showdown as the Celtics aim to close out the series and advance to the NBA Finals.

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