Historic First Quarter Sets the Tone in Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals
The Boston Celtics have etched their names into the annals of NBA history with an electrifying start to Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals. By the end of the first quarter, the Celtics held a commanding 37-20 lead over the Dallas Mavericks. This 17-point advantage marked the largest lead after a quarter in NBA Finals history, setting the stage for an authoritative performance.
Dominant Victory but Short of Record Blowouts
Boston’s momentum carried through the game as they secured a 107-89 victory against the Mavericks. While this 18-point triumph was impressive, it wasn’t among the biggest blowouts in NBA Finals history. To put this into perspective, the list of the largest margins ever recorded in NBA Finals games provides context to Boston’s Game 1 win:
- 1998 NBA Finals: Bulls vs. Jazz - Chicago Bulls won 96-54.
- 2008 NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Lakers - Boston Celtics won 131-92.
- 2013 NBA Finals: Spurs vs. Heat - San Antonio Spurs won 113-77.
- 1978 NBA Finals: Bullets vs. SuperSonics - Washington Bullets won 117-82.
- T-5. 1985 NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Lakers - Boston Celtics won 148-114.
- T-5. 1961 NBA Finals: Celtics vs. Hawks - Boston Celtics won 129-95.
Incredible Performances in NBA Finals History
Historically, some NBA Finals games have been marked by significant disparities in scores. Taking a closer look, we see standout moments, such as the Chicago Bulls' 42-point demolition of the Utah Jazz in 1998, producing a mere 54 points for Utah – the fewest by a team in NBA playoff history. Another memorable game was the 2008 match where the Celtics overwhelmed the Lakers with a resounding 131-92 victory.
The San Antonio Spurs also delivered a master class in the 2013 Finals, overpowering the Miami Heat 113-77. Even further back, in 1978, the Washington Bullets dominated the Seattle SuperSonics 117-82, and the Celtics themselves have two iconic blowouts to their credit: a 148-114 win against the Lakers in the 1985 Finals and a 129-95 victory over the Hawks in 1961.
Quotes from the Historic Performances
The records and performances from these unforgettable NBA Finals games have left a lasting impact on basketball history. Reflecting on the Celtics' recent historic first quarter, commentators and analysts highlighted the significance of Boston’s early surge.
"The Boston Celtics stormed out to a 37-20 lead over the Dallas Mavericks after the first quarter of Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals," noted one analyst.
Adding context, another expert emphasized, "The 17-point advantage marked the largest advantage after a quarter of play in NBA Finals history."
The historical perspective was also brought into sharp focus with a reference to the 1998 NBA Finals, "Utah's 54 points remain the fewest by a team in NBA playoff history."
Further underscoring Boston’s illustrious history, an analyst remarked, "It marked the largest blowout in a closeout game in NBA Finals history and sealed Boston’s first championship since 1986."
Concluding with a nod to the record books, another commentator observed, "The 148 points by the Celtics are still the most ever in a NBA Finals game."
Looking Ahead in the Finals
As the 2024 NBA Finals continue, the Boston Celtics have set the bar high with their historic start. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the Celtics can maintain their dominance or if the Dallas Mavericks will find a way to bounce back. The excitement and unpredictability of the NBA Finals promise further thrills and potential history-making moments.