Historic First Quarter Sets the Tone in Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals
The Boston Celtics made a resounding statement in Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals, establishing an unprecedented 17-point advantage by the end of the first quarter. By closing the opening period with a 37-20 lead over the Dallas Mavericks, the Celtics recorded the largest lead after a quarter in NBA Finals history.
Early Domination by Celtics
The Celtics' explosive start showcased their offensive prowess and defensive tenacity. The 17-point cushion allowed Boston to control the pace of the game, resulting in a convincing 107-89 victory over the Mavericks. Although the win was commanding, it didn't rank among the biggest blowouts in NBA Finals history.
Historic Blowouts in NBA Finals History
While Boston's Game 1 win was impressive, it pales in comparison to some of the most lopsided victories in the history of the NBA Finals. Here are the top blowouts:
- 1998 NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Jazz: The Chicago Bulls demolished the Utah Jazz with a 96-54 victory. Utah's 54 points remain the fewest scored by a team in NBA playoff history.
- 2008 NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Lakers: The Boston Celtics secured a 131-92 win over the Los Angeles Lakers, marking one of the most dominant performances in Finals history.
- 2013 NBA Finals: Spurs vs. Heat: The San Antonio Spurs routed the Miami Heat 113-77, displaying their superiority on both ends of the court.
- 1978 NBA Finals: Bullets vs. SuperSonics: The Washington Bullets overwhelmed the Seattle SuperSonics with a 117-82 victory.
- 1985 NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Lakers and 1961 NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Hawks: The Boston Celtics' 148-114 triumph over the Lakers in 1985 and their 129-95 win over the Hawks in 1961 are tied for the fifth largest blowout in NBA Finals history. Notably, the 148 points scored in 1985 still stands as the most ever in an NBA Finals game.
Quotes from the Landmark Performances
The Game 1 victory was notable not just for the commanding lead but also for its significance in NBA history. Reflecting on the Celtics' historic first quarter, an analyst 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 commentator emphasized the rarity of such a strong start: "The 17-point advantage marked the largest lead after a quarter of play in NBA Finals history."
Looking back at some historical matches, the commentator added, "Utah's 54 points remain the fewest by a team in NBA playoff history," referencing the Bulls' massive win over the Jazz in 1998.
The Celtics' 2008 blowout win over the Lakers also holds a warm place in the team's history. "It marked the largest blowout in a closeout game in NBA Finals history and sealed Boston's first championship since 1986," a Celtics fan reminisced.
Highlighting the Celtics' offensive capabilities, a historian noted, "The 148 points by the Celtics are still the most ever in an NBA Finals game," referring to the 1985 clash against the Lakers.
The Celtics' Game 1 performance in the 2024 NBA Finals has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting series. While they may not have achieved one of the historic blowouts, their dominant first quarter has already etched their performance into the annals of NBA history.