Boston Celtics Secure 3-0 Lead in Eastern Conference Finals with Jrue Holiday's Late Heroics

In a stunning turnaround, the Boston Celtics claimed a 114-111 victory over the Indiana Pacers, extending their lead to 3-0 in the Eastern Conference finals. Despite battling illness throughout the day, Celtics guard Jrue Holiday emerged as the game-changer in the final minutes.

Holiday, who had missed the team's morning shootaround due to illness, showcased his resilience when it mattered most. With just 38.9 seconds remaining on the clock, he converted a crucial three-point play, propelling Boston into the lead for the first time in nearly 36 minutes. His subsequent game-saving steal and two clutch free throws sealed the victory for the Celtics.

The Celtics, overcoming an 18-point deficit in the second half, now stand on the brink of their second NBA Finals appearance in three years. They can secure their ticket with another win in Game 4 on Monday against the Pacers.

Leading the charge for Boston, Jayson Tatum delivered a stellar performance, matching his playoff career-high with 36 points, along with 10 rebounds and eight assists. Jaylen Brown contributed 24 points, while veteran Al Horford, at 37 years old, impressed with 23 points, including seven three-pointers.

Despite a valiant effort from the Pacers, who were without All-NBA guard Tyrese Haliburton due to a left hamstring injury, they fell short in Game 3. Andrew Nembhard led Indiana with a career-high 32 points, supported by strong performances from T.J. McConnell (23 points, nine rebounds, six assists), Myles Turner, and Pascal Siakam (22 points each).

Coach Rick Carlisle praised his team's resilience, acknowledging their efforts in a hard-fought game. Despite the setback, he remains optimistic about their chances in Game 4.

The sellout crowd at Indiana's home arena, adorned in gold checkered flag shirts for the Indianapolis 500 weekend celebration, provided a spirited atmosphere. However, Holiday's late-game heroics silenced the crowd and secured the victory for the Celtics.

Indiana had built an 18-point lead in the second quarter and maintained it midway through the third. However, Boston rallied with a series of turnovers, narrowing the gap and ultimately seizing control in the final minutes.

With the series advantage firmly in their grasp, the Celtics remain focused on the task at hand. Tatum emphasized the team's commitment to taking each game as it comes, acknowledging the opportunity that lies ahead in Game 4.