Historic First Quarter in Game 1 of 2024 NBA Finals
The Boston Celtics set a remarkable tone for the 2024 NBA Finals, racing to a 37-20 lead over the Dallas Mavericks by the end of the first quarter of Game 1. This 17-point advantage is now the largest lead ever recorded after a quarter in NBA Finals history. The Celtics capitalized on this momentum, ultimately securing a 107-89 victory over the Mavericks.
The Historic Lead
The opening quarter of Game 1 will be remembered as a pivotal moment in NBA Finals history. The Celtics' explosive start, marked by sharp shooting and stifling defense, allowed them to dominate the Mavericks early. It is rare to see such a commanding performance right from the tip-off, and this 17-point margin set a new benchmark for playoff excellence.
Quotes from those witnessing the game underline the significance of this achievement. One observer noted, "The Boston Celtics stormed out to a 37-20 lead over the Dallas Mavericks after the first quarter of Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals." Another remarked, "The 17-point advantage marked the largest advantage after a quarter of play in NBA Finals history."
Celtics’ Dominance in Game 1
While the Celtics’ first-quarter performance was extraordinary, their overall game execution was equally impressive. The balanced attack and defensive intensity continued throughout the game, leading to a decisive 107-89 win. However, this victory does not rank among the biggest blowouts in NBA Finals history.
Biggest Blowouts in NBA Finals History
To provide context, here is a reminder of some of the biggest blowouts in NBA Finals history:
- 1998 NBA Finals: Chicago Bulls vs. Utah Jazz - Chicago Bulls won 96-54. Utah's 54 points remain the fewest by a team in NBA playoff history.
- 2008 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers - Boston Celtics won 131-92.
- 2013 NBA Finals: San Antonio Spurs vs. Miami Heat - San Antonio Spurs won 113-77.
- 1978 NBA Finals: Washington Bullets vs. Seattle SuperSonics - Washington Bullets won 117-82.
- Tied for fifth, the 1985 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers - Boston Celtics won 148-114, and the 1961 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. St. Louis Hawks - Boston Celtics won 129-95.
Among these memorable games, the 1998 NBA Finals stands out. The Chicago Bulls' 96-54 win over the Utah Jazz not only marked a historic blowout but also set the record for the fewest points scored by a team in an NBA playoff game. Another noteworthy performance was the Boston Celtics' 148-point game against the Los Angeles Lakers in 1985, which remains the highest points scored by a team in an NBA Finals game.
Quotes from Historic Performances
A few evocative quotes help capture the essence of these historic NBA moments:
"Utah's 54 points remain the fewest by a team in NBA playoff history."
"It marked the largest blowout in a closeout game in NBA Finals history and sealed Boston's first championship since 1986."
"The 148 points by the Celtics are still the most ever in an NBA Finals game."
Conclusion
The Celtics' performance in Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals adds another chapter to their storied history. By jumping out to a 37-20 lead in the first quarter, they set a new milestone for the largest advantage after a quarter in NBA Finals history. Although this game wasn’t among the biggest blowouts in finals history, it underscores the Celtics' capacity for dominance. With such a strong start, the 2024 NBA Finals promise to be an exciting series to watch.