Boston Celtics NBA title Pep Guardiola influence

Boston Celtics dominate Dallas Mavericks 107-89 in Game 1 of NBA Finals, moving closer to historic 18th title. Porzingis shines in return.

The Boston Celtics are on the path to a historic 18th NBA title after a dominant 107-89 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. The Celtics, tied with the Los Angeles Lakers for the most NBA titles at 17, took a significant step towards glory with a convincing win at TD Garden.

Head coach Joe Mazzulla, aiming to end the Celtics' 16-year championship drought, drew inspiration from Manchester City's Pep Guardiola, who recently led his team to a fourth consecutive Premier League title. The two coaches exchanged jerseys and discussed tactics before the Celtics stifled the Mavericks' offense.

Boston took control early in the game, building a 21-point lead by halftime and limiting the Mavericks to just nine assists on 35 field goals. Mavericks star Luka Doncic led all scorers with 30 points and 10 rebounds, but struggled to get his teammates involved with only one assist.

Kyrie Irving led the Mavericks with 12 points, while PJ Washington and Jaden Hardy also reached double figures. However, it was Kristaps Porzingis who stole the show for the Celtics in his return from injury, contributing 20 points, six rebounds, and three assists. Jaylen Brown added 22 points, and Jayson Tatum recorded a double-double with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists.

The Celtics will look to extend their series lead in Game 2, scheduled for Sunday, June 9, at TD Garden. Tip-off is set for 8pm local time, or 1am UK time on Monday morning.