Jayson Tatum Dazzles as Celtics Escape Pacers in Game 1 Thriller

36-Point Haul and Brown's Clutch Treys Force Overtime

Boston Celtics 133, Indiana Pacers 128

The Boston Celtics narrowly edged out the Indiana Pacers 133-128 in an exhilarating Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals. Jayson Tatum exploded for 36 points, while Jaylen Brown hit a crucial three-pointer in the final seconds of regulation to force overtime.

The Celtics stormed out of the gates and led by 13 points at halftime. However, the Pacers refused to go down without a fight and stormed back in the third quarter. They tied the game late in the fourth quarter and had a chance to win it on the final possession, but Myles Turner's shot attempt was blocked by Marcus Smart.

In overtime, the Celtics took control and outscored the Pacers 11-3. Tatum hit several key baskets down the stretch, while Brown and Smart played stellar defense on Tyrese Haliburton and Buddy Hield.

Brown finished with 23 points, followed by Smart (17), Horford (12), and Derrick White (11). Haliburton led the Pacers with 23 points, while Turner added 24 and Hield scored 20.

The Celtics now hold a 1-0 lead in the series and will look to build on their advantage in Game 2 on Thursday.