The Boston Celtics defeated the Washington Wizards 108-96 on November 22, 2024, in an NBA Cup Group Play matchup at Capital One Arena. Boston relied on the stellar performance of Jaylen Brown, who tallied 31 points on 11-for-27 shooting, including 3-for-13 from beyond the arc, along with 11 rebounds and 5 assists. Jayson Tatum contributed 16 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists, while the Celtics’ bench added valuable contributions, particularly in key stretches of the game.
The game remained competitive through the first half, with the Wizards holding a slight 24-20 lead at the end of the second quarter. Boston made adjustments and took control in the third quarter, outscoring Washington 26-21. In the final period, the Celtics unleashed a 33-point quarter, securing a comfortable margin and silencing the home crowd.
Jordan Poole stood out for the Wizards with 23 points and 8 assists, showcasing his ability to create plays. Malcolm Brogdon delivered a strong double-double performance, scoring 18 points and pulling down 10 rebounds, while rookie Alex Sarr showed flashes of potential with impactful plays in the paint.
Key moments included Boston’s defense stepping up late in the game, forcing turnovers, and capitalizing on transition opportunities. The Celtics also dominated on the boards, limiting Washington’s second-chance points and sealing the game with critical free throws in the closing minutes.
Despite the loss, the Wizards showed promise in spurts but struggled with consistency, particularly in closing out defensive possessions and matching Boston’s pace in transition. The Celtics, meanwhile, continued to display the cohesion and depth that make them a formidable contender this season.
1st Quarter
The game began as a closely contested battle, with both teams trading baskets early. The Celtics leaned on Jaylen Brown’s aggressive scoring, while the Wizards found success through Jordan Poole’s playmaking. The quarter ended with Boston slightly ahead, 29-27, thanks to a late run sparked by their defense and transition opportunities.
2nd Quarter
Washington fought back in the second quarter, taking a brief lead behind Malcolm Brogdon’s steady inside-outside game. The Wizards outscored Boston 24-20 in this frame, entering halftime with a slim 51-49 lead. Both teams struggled with efficiency, but Washington capitalized on a few key offensive rebounds and turnovers by Boston.
3rd Quarter
Coming out of halftime, the Celtics tightened their defense and found rhythm on offense. Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum took over, combining for several critical buckets that helped Boston regain control. The Celtics outscored the Wizards 26-21 in this period, regaining the lead heading into the final quarter at 75-72.
4th Quarter
The Celtics dominated the fourth quarter, showcasing their depth and execution. Boston outscored Washington 33-24, with Brown continuing to lead the charge alongside key contributions from the bench. The Celtics’ defensive pressure forced multiple turnovers, allowing them to extend their lead. Despite a late push from the Wizards, including a few three-pointers from Poole, Boston sealed the win with clutch free throws and disciplined play down the stretch.
Key Player Performances
Boston Celtics
Jaylen Brown: 31 points (11-27 FG, 3-13 3PT, 6-6 FT), 11 rebounds, 5 assists
Jayson Tatum: 16 points (6-19 FG, 1-7 3PT, 3-4 FT), 9 rebounds, 8 assists
Derrick White: 10 points (5-10 FG, 2-5 3PT), 2 rebounds, 2 steals
Washington Wizards
Jordan Poole: 23 points (9-19 FG, 3-7 3PT, 2-3 FT), 8 assists, 2 rebounds
Malcolm Brogdon: 18 points (7-13 FG, 3-6 3PT), 10 rebounds, 1 assist
Kyle Kuzma: 21 points (6-15 FG, 3-9 3PT), 3 rebounds, 1 assists
Alex Sarr: 6 points (5-8 FG), 9 rebounds, 2 blocks
Game Notes
The Celtics capitalized on points off turnovers, scoring 18 compared to Washington’s 9.
Boston outrebounded Washington 52-45, limiting second-chance opportunities for the Wizards.
The Wizards showed flashes of potential but lacked consistency in defensive rotations.
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