"Viewers probably never expected this game to be so intense. With just over ten minutes left, the game has reached a fever pitch. Will the Boston Celtics emerge as the dark horse, or will the Indiana Pacers complete their comeback? We'll have to wait and see!"
As ESPN's famous commentator Mike Breen finished speaking from the courtside commentary booth, the final showdown officially began.
The Boston Celtics inbounded from the backcourt and passed the ball to Mike James. He had barely taken two dribbles when Jamaal Tinsley rushed over, trying to steal it from him.
Mike James immediately used his body to shield the ball from Jamaal Tinsley, then sped up and dribbled across half court.
Seeing that he had failed, Jamaal Tinsley hurried back to his own half.
Mike James flicked his wrist and passed to Paul Pierce, who had come out to the left to receive the ball. Reggie Miller was still standing in front of him.
As soon as he got the ball, Paul Pierce wasted no time and barreled into Reggie Miller.
Show some respect for your elders? Not a chance!
Reggie Miller stumbled from the impact.
Paul Pierce took the opportunity to drive inside, but the next second, Jermaine O'Neal came over to help, raising both hands to block his path.
Paul Pierce stopped abruptly. Driving in and going one-on-one against Jermaine O'Neal would have been unwise.
"Paul!" Vin Baker shouted as he ran out to the perimeter.
Vin Baker had a capable midrange shot.
Paul Pierce passed him the ball. Vin Baker caught it, jumped without hesitation, took aim, and shot.
Swish. The ball dropped cleanly through the hoop.
Score!
74–70
"The Boston Celtics have finally got their scoring started! Paul made a beautiful pass to Vin Baker, and Vin delivered with the basket,"