Celtics outlast Mavericks to maintain path towards NBA championship.

Celtics stars Tatum and Brown lead Boston to a 3-0 series lead in the NBA Finals, eyeing their 18th championship.

Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown shared an emotional embrace after leading the Boston Celtics to a crucial victory, narrowly avoiding what could have been the biggest collapse in an NBA Finals game in over two decades. Their exceptional performance has put them on the brink of joining the elite group of Celtics legends by securing another championship banner to hang in the hallowed halls of the TD Garden.

Tatum's 31 points and Brown's 30 points propelled the Celtics to a hard-fought 106-99 win over the Dallas Mavericks, giving them a commanding 3-0 series lead and edging them closer to their historic 18th title. Brown's all-around contribution of eight rebounds and eight assists showcased Boston's dominance, extending their franchise-best playoff winning streak to 10 games and maintaining a flawless 7-0 record on the road this postseason. A victory in Dallas in the next game would solidify their claim to the championship and break their tie with the Lakers for the most NBA titles.

Despite a near-collapse in the final minutes of the game, where the Celtics saw their 21-point lead dwindle, Tatum emphasized the importance of resilience in such situations, highlighting the mental toughness required to be a champion. The absence of Kristaps Porzingis due to injury did not deter Boston's performance, as they continued their winning streak without him, further underscoring their dominance in the playoffs.

The Mavericks, led by Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, mounted a valiant comeback attempt, but ultimately fell short in the face of Boston's unwavering resolve. The Celtics' trio of Tatum, Brown, and Derrick White stepped up when it mattered most, securing the crucial points needed to inch closer to their first title since 2008.

As the series heads into the next game, Dallas finds themselves in a must-win situation to avoid being swept for only the second time in franchise history. The Celtics, on the other hand, are poised to make history and cement their place among the NBA's greatest teams with a resounding victory in the Finals.

The energy and excitement of the game were palpable, with fans on the edge of their seats and star-studded spectators like Patrick Mahomes adding to the electrifying atmosphere. The Celtics weathered an early storm from the Mavericks, showcasing their resilience and composure in the face of adversity.

In the end, it was the Celtics' unwavering determination and team effort that secured the victory, setting the stage for a potential championship celebration. Despite the odds stacked against them, Boston remains focused on the task at hand, knowing that their vulnerability only fuels their fighting spirit and determination to emerge victorious.

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