The new NBA champions equal the records of two Lakers legends, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal: it had stood for 22 years
The Boston Celtics became NBA champions for 2024, beating the Dallas Mavericks 4-1 in the Series. An almost overwhelming victory by the Celtics who, on the shoulders of Jason Tatum, Jalen Brown (MVP of the Finals) and Jrue Holiday gave Boston their 18th ring (record in the League).
Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal saw their record equaled (LaPresse) -tshot.it
Not even the immense talent of Luka Doncic and the leadership of Kyrie Irving were enough to counter the enthusiasm and strength of coach Mazzulla’s franchise. After being first in the Eastern Conference, above the Knicks and Bucks, the Celtics they also confirmed themselves in the playoffs, first winning the Conference final against the Indiana Pacers and then the NBA Finals without almost ever really taking risks.
Browne and Tatum like Kobe and Shaq: the record of the Boston Celtics couple
A title that had been missing since 2008, when Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce won it. Thanks to the title victory, Brown and Tatum also tied the Lakers record of Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal from 22 years ago.
Boston Celtics NBA champions 2024 (LaPresse)- Tshot.it
In fact, the American Celtics duo is the first pair of teammates to score more than 450 points each in three consecutive playoff seasons since the extraordinary Kobe-Shaq duo in 20002. A record that stood for 22 years and which the Boston couple managed to unhinge, dispelling any doubts about their effectiveness. The real contribution of Tatum and Brown to the franchise had often been negatively commented on, on the basis that the title had never arrived.
Now the story has changed. The duo who chased the title for years without success also managed to impose themselves against two top stars like Doncic and Irving. Also thanks to a high quality supporting cast composed primarily of Holiday, but also White, Pritchard, Al Horford. Tatum and Brown’s offensive efficiency continued last season when they lost to the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals and they have continued throughout this postseason.
Tatum averaged 22.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 7.2 assists per game throughout the series against Mavs. He started subdued but as the matches went by he raised the engine revs, reaching the top at the decisive moment. Jaylen Brown, on the other hand, scored 20.8 points, 5.4 rebounds and five assists per game, also earning the Finals MVP award.
2024-06-23 17:33:20
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