Boston Celtics Beat Atlanta Hawks On Pride Night

The Boston Celtics concluded a three-game homestand against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday. The Celtics beat the Hawks 109-102 at TD Garden. Boston improved to 49-24 and has a two-game winning streak, while Atlanta fell to 41-33 and has a one-game losing streak.

The Celtics hosted Pride Celebration Night to honor the LGBTQ+ community and showcase a commitment to inclusion and authenticity on and off the court. Western Massachusetts DJ Nicki Nell represented Western Mass. and brought people together through music.

In Case You Missed It

The Boston Celtics beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 119-109 at TD Garden on Wednesday. Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 31 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists. Boston named Brown its Gatorade Player of the Game. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 33 points, 2 rebounds, and 8 assists.

The Atlanta Hawks edged out the Detroit Pistons 130-129 at Little Caesars Arena on Wednesday. Jalen Johnson led the Hawks with 27 points, 8 rebounds, and 12 assists. Johnson became one of two NBA players averaging 20+ points, 10+ rebounds, and 5+ assists per game. Jalen Duren led the Pistons with 26 points, 14 rebounds, and 3 assists.

Boston Celtics vs. Atlanta Hawks Starters

Boston’s starting lineup featured Derrick White, Baylor Scheierman, Jayson Tatum, Sam Hauser, and Neemias Queta. Boston ruled out Nikola Vucevic (right ring finger fracture) and Jaylen Brown (left Achilles tendinitis).

Atlanta’s starting lineup featured Dyson Daniels, Onyeka Okongwu, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Johnson, and CJ McCollum. Atlanta ruled out Jock Landale (right shoulder impingement).

Daniels came off a career-high eight offensive rebounds against the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday. Daniels’ previous performance showcased his ability to perform at a high level. In addition, Atlanta entered Friday’s game with a 15-2 record after the NBA All-Star Break.

Celtics vs. Hawks Recap

Friday’s game showcased the rivalry between the Celtics and Hawks since the late 1980s and early 1990s. The two teams faced each other numerous times in the regular season and postseason. Fast forward to today, as the two teams are red-hot in the Eastern Conference.

Atlanta opened the first quarter on a positive note. Atlanta went 4-for-5 from the three-point line in the first five minutes. Boston went on a 9-0 run to tie the game. Payton Pritchard hit a buzzer-beater to cap off 17 first-quarter points. Atlanta took a 29-26 lead to end the first.

Atlanta opened the second quarter on a positive note. Corey Kispert nailed a three-pointer. Boston picked up the pace. Hauser buried a one-foot shot. Atlanta shone late as Johnson hit a buzzer-beater. Atlanta took a 60-55 lead into halftime.

Both teams saw a slow start to the third quarter, but overcame the slow pace. Atlanta had success early on. McCollum weaved through defenders to score. Boston regained the lead. Jayson Tatum tipped in a basket. Boston took an 87-82 lead through three quarters.

Boston maintained its lead to start the fourth quarter. Tatum weaved past a Hawks defender to score a game-changing shot. Atlanta fought to keep the game close, but no cigar. Johnson nailed back-to-back three-pointers. Boston won 109-102 in regulation.

Pritchard led the Celtics with 36 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists. Johnson led the Hawks with 29 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists.

Next Steps

The Boston Celtics embark on a four-game road trip starting at the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday at 6:00 p.m. Eastern. Boston can potentially beat Charlotte by utilizing its strong offensive lineup, leveraging its defensive strength, and maintaining strong team chemistry.

The Atlanta Hawks open a two-game homestand starting with the Sacramento Kings on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Eastern. Atlanta can potentially blow out Sacramento by showcasing strong performances, scoring in double figures, and utilizing defensive strength.