Boston Just Took Home-Court Advantage Back From Philly With a Fourth-Quarter Masterclass

The Boston Celtics stole Game 3 in Philadelphia on Friday night, 108-100, and now they control this Eastern Conference first-round series with a 2-1 lead. This is the kind of game that decides whether a team is built for the long run in April.

Jaylen Brown Took Over When It Mattered Most

For the better part of a decade, Boston has leaned on the dynamic duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown to carry them through the playoffs. Friday was no different. Brown put together a 10-point run late in the fourth quarter that essentially clinched the win. He started the stretch with a steal that led to a Derrick White fast-break bucket, then scored eight straight points himself to give Boston the separation they needed. Tatum closed the door by hitting a pair of massive 3-pointers that slammed it shut. That's championship-level execution when the stakes are highest.

Shooting Has Been the Story All Series Long

Boston won Games 1 and 3 by playing lights-out from distance. Game 1 was a blowout, 123-91. Game 3 came down to the wire but the Celtics' shooting was the difference maker. The 76ers stole Game 2 when Boston's shot selection fell off a cliff in a 111-97 loss. In Game 4 on Sunday at 7 p.m. ET on NBC/Peacock, watch which version of the Celtics shows up. That's going to determine whether they close this out at home or head back to Philly.

Embiid's Status Looms Over Everything

Joel Embiid was upgraded to doubtful on Thursday before being ruled out hours before Friday's tipoff. He's been recovering from an emergency appendectomy for over two weeks now. But with another 48 hours to heal before Game 4, the door is open for the 76ers' superstar center to potentially make his return. If he's back on the court, this series changes completely.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.