Historic First Quarter in Game 1 of 2024 NBA Finals
The 2024 NBA Finals have already made history. In Game 1, the Boston Celtics stormed out to an astonishing 37-20 lead over the Dallas Mavericks by the end of the first quarter. This 17-point advantage is now recorded as the largest lead after one quarter in NBA Finals history.
Despite the historic start, Celtics fans will recall that this isn’t the first time their beloved team has set records in the Finals. The Celtics ultimately secured a commanding 107-89 victory over the Mavericks in Game 1, setting the tone for what promises to be a riveting series. While impressive, this win was not among the biggest blowouts in NBA Finals history, a record also held in part by the Celtics themselves.
Biggest Blowouts in NBA Finals History
The annals of the NBA Finals are filled with memorable blowouts. Here's a look at the most significant blowouts in NBA Finals history:
- 1998 NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Jazz: The Chicago Bulls produced a stunning victory with a scoreline of 96-54.
- 2008 NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Lakers: The Boston Celtics decimated the Los Angeles Lakers with a 131-92 win.
- 2013 NBA Finals: Spurs vs. Heat: The San Antonio Spurs triumphed over the Miami Heat, finishing 113-77.
- 1978 NBA Finals: Bullets vs. SuperSonics: The Washington Bullets dominated the Seattle SuperSonics with a 117-82 win.
- 1985 NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Lakers: The Boston Celtics, in another historic moment, overwhelmed the Lakers 148-114.
- 1961 NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Hawks: The Boston Celtics thrashed the St. Louis Hawks with a 129-95 scoreline.
Quotes from Historic Performances
The 2024 NBA Finals have added their own chapter to the storied history of the Celtics and the league. Reflecting on these past milestones, a few memorable quotes come to mind:
"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."
"The 17-point advantage marked the largest advantage after a quarter of play in NBA Finals history."
"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 a NBA Finals game."
Reflection
The Celtics' performance in Game 1 is a testament to their storied tradition of excellence and dominance in the NBA Finals. The 17-point lead by the end of the first quarter not only set a record but also demonstrated the team's readiness and determination to add another championship banner to their already illustrious collection. As the series progresses, fans will eagerly watch to see if the Celtics can build on their early success and continue their march towards another NBA title.
While not the largest blowout, Game 1's victory is a critical first step for the Celtics in this year's Finals. Observers will undoubtedly continue to compare this series' outcomes to those of historic matchups of the past, keeping an eye out for new records and unforgettable performances.