Despite an impressive resistance from the Atlanta Hawks, the Boston Celtics prevailed 128-120 to book a spot in the Eastern Conference semi-finals and avoid a Game Seven.
The Celtics held a 3-1 lead in their first round series but the Hawks bounced back in Game Five to get one last chance to level the series in front of their home fans at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia.
Who will win it all? Watch the NBA Playoffs and every game of the NBA Finals LIVE on ESPN on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
It was an inspired effort from the Hawks, with superstar Trae Young at the centre of the Hawks’ comeback.
Fri, 28 Apr
Friday April 28th
MORE COVERAGE ‘Never seen this in my life’: Chaos as Aussie star body slammed in ‘huge’ basketball brawl ‘Epic epic epic epic epic collapse’: NBA favourites OUT after all-time playoff flop, Butler genius ‘They have an interest’: Simmons linked to shock three-team trade for seven-time NBA All-Star De’Andre Hunter, Dejounte Murray and John Collins all piled on the points as the Hawks nipped in front of the Celtics to hold a 100-98 lead going into the fourth quarter. But the fourth quarter was when the Celtics cranked it up a notch and Atlanta simply couldn’t keep pace. Boston went on a late run where they scored 12 unanswered points with just over two minutes to play as they took the lead and never looked back. A scintillating few minutes from the Celtics summed up their quality best. Jayson Tatum drained a three as Atlanta looked to hit back immediately, but Jaylen Brown rose highest to swat away the lay-up attempt. The Celtics then drove down the court as Al Horford looked to sink one from deep. His effort hit the rim, but Tatum was on hand to slam down the put back as the Hawks fans and players looked rattled. Tatum and Brown were the stars of the show for the Celtics, finishing with 30 and 32 points respectively. Boston’s Game Six victory now means they have a date set in the Eastern Conference semi-finals with the Philadelphia 76ers.
