Boston’s remarkable comeback, fueled by a dominant second quarter, secured their fourth consecutive victory with a resounding 18-point win over Indiana at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on February 29, 2025.
Celtics Extend Win Streak to Four
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The Celtics overcame a 15-point deficit, showcasing impressive teamwork and shooting prowess.
- Boston outscored Indiana 47-22 in the second quarter, completely shifting the game’s momentum.
- Payton Pritchard delivered a standout performance with 29 points, nine rebounds, and five assists.
- The Celtics shot an impressive 51% from the three-point line (20 of 39 attempts).
- Indiana continues to struggle in the absence of key player Tyrese Haliburton.
The Celtics, displaying resilience and cohesion, erased a significant early deficit. Their offensive explosion in the second quarter—a staggering 47-22 run—left the Pacers reeling. While Jaylen Brown led the scoring, Payton Pritchard proved equally impactful, contributing 29 points, nine rebounds, and five assists.
“We worked hard physically and a lot of good things happened,” said Sam Hauser, who added 23 points off the bench. “Credit all to my teammates who found me in the right positions.”
Hauser was particularly effective from beyond the arc, sinking seven of his eight three-point attempts as the Celtics connected on 51% of their long-range shots (20 of 39). The Pacers, hampered by the continued absence of Tyrese Haliburton, saw six players score in double figures, but none surpassed 20 points.
Bulls Stun Sixers with Late Run
The Chicago Bulls sealed a 109-102 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, punctuated by a decisive ten-point streak in the final minutes.
This game marked only the fourth appearance this season where the Sixers had all three of their star players – Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey – on the court together. Unfortunately for Philadelphia, all four of those contests have resulted in losses, leaving them in fourth place in the Eastern Conference.
Coby White played a pivotal role down the stretch, hitting a crucial three-pointer over Embiid and then delivering an assist to extend the Bulls’ lead. “We never stop fighting,” White stated. “It wasn’t the cleanest game but we fought until the end and carried the game forward.”
Chicago’s bench proved to be a significant factor, contributing a combined 59 points, led by Zach Collins (15 points) and Tre Jones (15 points). The Bulls have now won five games in a row.
Heat Bounce Back Against Hawks
The Miami Heat snapped a frustrating losing streak, defeating the Atlanta Hawks 126-111. This victory marked a crucial step in their recovery after losing nine of their previous eleven games.
Forward Norman Powell led the Heat in scoring with 25 points, while center Kel’el Ware recorded a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds.
“It’s been frustrating watching from the sidelines without being able to help,” said Pelle Larsson, who started despite discomfort in his left ankle. “He had a lot of energy and wanted to have an impact on the game.” Mexican player Jaime Jaquez Jr. also made a significant contribution, playing 28 minutes and registering 16 points, five rebounds, and three assists.
The Heat were without Tyler Herro due to a right foot injury and Bam Adebayo, who is dealing with back problems. For the Hawks, this loss extends their consecutive losing streak to five games, dropping them to tenth place in the standings with a record of 15 wins and 17 losses.
Booker Powers Suns Past Pelicans
The Phoenix Suns secured their sixth road win of the season, defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 115-108 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.
Devin Booker, who recently reached 700 career games averaging 24.5 points, 4 rebounds, and 5.2 assists, led the Suns with 30 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, converting nine of his eleven free throw attempts.
“It was a game we had to win,” Booker explained. “It was a highly competitive game, we tried to defend and avoid fouls, we tried to secure the ball and use our speed.”
Despite a season of inconsistency, the Suns’ 16 wins and 13 losses are currently enough to secure a seventh-place finish, which would position them for a playoff berth.
