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Celtics Edge Suns as Brown Shines with 41 Points

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Boston Celtics defeated the Phoenix Suns 120-112 at TD Garden on March 16, 2026.
Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 41 points, and Devin Booker scored 40 for the Suns.
The Suns briefly led in the fourth quarter before late-game execution faltered and Boston regained control.
The Suns drew criticism for a disparity in free-throw attempts, as they prepare for a back-to-back against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

History

Historical Context

The 1980 NBA Finals marked a turning point in basketball, with the Los Angeles Lakers defeating the Philadelphia 76ers 4-2. Magic Johnson, a rookie, stepped in for the injured Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and scored 42 points in Game 6, earning Finals MVP honors. This victory not only secured the Lakers' seventh championship but also heralded the beginning of the "Showtime" era in basketball.

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Story summary

The Boston Celtics defeated the Phoenix Suns 120-112 at TD Garden on March 16, 2026.
Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 41 points, and Devin Booker scored 40 for the Suns.
The Suns briefly led in the fourth quarter before late-game execution faltered and Boston regained control.
The Suns drew criticism for a disparity in free-throw attempts, as they prepare for a back-to-back against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

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