In a thrilling overtime duel, Jayson Tatum’s 45-point performance, including 26 in the fourth quarter and overtime, powered the Boston Celtics to a historic 127-120 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, marking their first 18-0 start at home in franchise history. The game, held in Boston, was a significant occasion as Alex Rodriguez, a former New York Yankee and current Timberwolves owner, witnessed his team’s defeat from courtside.
The Timberwolves, who had not won in Boston since 2005 when Kevin Garnett played for Minnesota, faced the Celtics in a clash of the conference leaders. Garnett’s number now adorns the rafters of the new Boston Garden, a tribute to his role in the Celtics’ 2008 NBA championship.
Jaylen Brown contributed 35 points and 11 rebounds to the Celtics’ win, while Jrue Holiday added 12 points, including a crucial corner three-pointer. The Timberwolves, led by Anthony Edwards with 29 points and Karl-Anthony Towns with 25 points and 13 rebounds, arrived in Boston after a delayed flight due to weather issues.
The intense game saw the Timberwolves take their first lead in the second half and build a nine-point advantage with just over three minutes left in the fourth quarter. However, the Celtics rallied to score 14 of the final 19 points in regulation, pushing the game into overtime.
This win continues the Celtics’ impressive home streak, surpassing the 1957-58 team’s record and approaching the 1985-86 team’s remarkable home record.
Both teams look forward to their next challenges, with the Timberwolves hosting the Portland Trail Blazers and the Celtics facing off against the Milwaukee Bucks.
