Historic First Quarter Sets Tone in Game 1 of 2024 NBA Finals
In a memorable start to the 2024 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics delivered a stunning performance by taking a commanding 37-20 lead over the Dallas Mavericks by the end of the first quarter in Game 1. This 17-point advantage set a new record for the largest lead after a quarter in NBA Finals history, highlighting the Celtics' dominant start.
Game 1 Performance and Record
The Celtics' early surge played a crucial role in their eventual 107-89 victory over the Mavericks. Although the win was decisive, it did not rank among the biggest blowouts in NBA Finals history. Nevertheless, Boston's strong start set the tone for the rest of the game, allowing them to maintain a comfortable lead throughout.
Biggest Blowouts in NBA Finals History
To put the Celtics' victory in context, here are some of the largest blowouts in NBA Finals history:
- 1998 NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Jazz: Chicago Bulls won 96-54, which still stands as the largest blowout in Finals history.
- 2008 NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Lakers: Boston Celtics triumphed with a 131-92 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.
- 2013 NBA Finals: Spurs vs. Heat: San Antonio Spurs secured a 113-77 win against the Miami Heat.
- 1978 NBA Finals: Bullets vs. SuperSonics: Washington Bullets dominated with a 117-82 victory over the Seattle SuperSonics.
- Tied 5th - 1985 NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Lakers: Boston Celtics won 148-114, marking one of their more historic victories.
- Tied 5th - 1961 NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Hawks: Boston Celtics recorded a 129-95 win against the St. Louis Hawks.
While the Celtics' 107-89 win over the Mavericks in Game 1 of the 2024 Finals did not make this list, it is noteworthy for its record-setting first quarter.
Quotes from the Historic Performances
Reflecting on the Celtics' historic first quarter, the magnitude of the performance becomes clear through various statements:
"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."
Additionally, the 1998 Finals between the Bulls and the Jazz remains a notable point in playoff history:
"Utah's 54 points remain the fewest by a team in NBA playoff history."
Furthermore, looking back at historic blowouts gives context to the significance of these performances:
"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' robust start in Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals has set the stage for a potentially thrilling series. While their 107-89 victory over the Mavericks may not be among the greatest blowouts in NBA history, the record-setting 17-point lead at the end of the first quarter will be remembered as a significant moment in NBA Finals lore.
As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see if the Celtics can maintain this level of performance and potentially add another championship to their storied history. For now, fans and analysts alike will be reflecting on the significance of Game 1's first quarter and what it could mean for the remainder of the Finals.