Garnett's buzzer-beater lifts Celtics over Knicks
Kevin Garnett's jump shot at the buzzer lifted Boston to a 107-105 NBA overtime victory over the New York Knicks on Sunday.
Paul Pierce scored a season-high 33 points, and had all of Boston's points in overtime until Garnett's final shot.
The Knicks double-teamed Pierce on the final play, leaving Garnett open to seal the win.
"I knew they were going to sort of follow Paul and he's going to draw a lot of attention," Garnett said, "and I just had to make the shot."
Overall both Garnett and Ray Allen had poor shooting nights, Garnett gooing 4 of 15 for 10 points and Allen 3 of 13 for 13 points.
Despite Garnett's struggles, Pierce suggested the final play, and his faith was justified.
"He's that type of player," Pierce said. "You're talking about a Hall of Fame player. He's missed millions of shots. He's going to keep playing, going to keep taking shots when he gets an opportunity. He really stepped up big for our team when we needed it."
Rajon Rondo chipped in 14 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds as Boston won for the second time in five games.
The Celtics squandered a big lead in a back-and-forth third quarter, but they rallied to force the overtime.
"I am expecting Pierce to try and make a move and pull up," said David Lee, one of the Knicks defenders who followed Pierce on the final play.
"Good play by them and it's just unfortunate to lose a game like this."
AFP
