NBA history is filled with memorable moments that have shaped the league. One such moment that stands out is the triple-overtime thriller between the Boston Celtics and the Phoenix Suns in Game 5 of the 1976 NBA Finals. This game, which took place on June 4, 1976, at the legendary Boston Garden, is often regarded as one of the greatest basketball games ever played.
Former Hall of Fame player Rick Barry, who was broadcasting the game, described it as “the most exciting basketball game I’ve ever seen.” The intensity and excitement of this matchup were palpable, leaving fans on the edge of their seats for the entire duration of the game.
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At that time, the series was tied 2-2, with both teams vying for the championship. The Celtics, a team steeped in tradition, faced off against the upstart Suns, who had emerged as a force to be reckoned with despite being a relatively new franchise.
The game went into not one, not two, but three overtimes, making it the first Finals game in history to last that long. Each overtime period was filled with thrilling moments, dramatic twists, and unpredictable turns. It was a rollercoaster of emotions for both teams and their passionate fans.
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One of the most memorable sequences occurred in the first overtime. Boston’s Paul Silas signaled for a timeout, which, if granted, would have resulted in a technical foul against the Celtics. This would have given the Suns an opportunity to secure the victory. However, referee Richie Powers chose to ignore the signal, allowing the game to continue.
In the second overtime, the Suns took a one-point lead with just four seconds remaining. But the Celtics’ John Havlicek swiftly raced down the court and made a clutch 15-foot bank shot, causing Celtics fans to flood the court in celebration. After order was restored, the officials added one second back on the clock and prepared to give the ball to the Suns.
In a surprising turn of events, the Suns’ Paul Westphal called for a timeout, even though his team did not have any remaining timeouts. This unconventional move resulted in a technical foul against the Suns, giving Boston a two-point lead. However, it allowed the Suns to inbound the ball from midcourt. Gar Heard received the pass, turned, and sank a buzzer-beating jumper to force the game into its third overtime, leaving the Garden crowd in awe.
With key players from both teams having fouled out, it was Glenn McDonald, a seldom-used reserve for the Celtics, who stepped up in the third overtime. McDonald scored six crucial points, leading Boston to an exhilarating 128-126 victory. Two days later, the Celtics defeated the Suns 87-80 in Phoenix, securing their 13th NBA championship.
The triple-overtime thriller between the Celtics and the Suns in the 1976 NBA Finals remains etched in basketball history as a testament to the resilience, determination, and unforgettable moments that define the sport. It showcased the incredible talent and competitive spirit of both teams, leaving fans and players alike in awe of what they had witnessed.
FAQs
Q: Was the triple-overtime game between the Celtics and the Suns in the 1976 NBA Finals the longest NBA Finals game in history?
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A: Yes, the game between the Celtics and the Suns in the 1976 NBA Finals is the longest Finals game to date, lasting three overtimes.
Q: Who was the unlikely hero for the Celtics in the triple-overtime game?
A: Glenn McDonald, a seldom-used reserve, stepped up and scored six crucial points in the third overtime, leading the Celtics to victory.
Q: How did the game end?
A: The Celtics secured a thrilling 128-126 victory in triple overtime. Two days later, they defeated the Suns 87-80 in Phoenix to win their 13th NBA championship.
Summary
The triple-overtime game between the Boston Celtics and the Phoenix Suns in the 1976 NBA Finals is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball games ever played. This intense matchup, held at the iconic Boston Garden, captivated fans with its thrilling moments, dramatic twists, and unforgettable plays. Despite key players fouling out, it was Glenn McDonald, a seldom-used reserve, who emerged as the hero for the Celtics, leading them to a hard-fought 128-126 victory. This historic game serves as a testament to the resilience, determination, and sheer excitement that make NBA basketball an unparalleled sport. Experience the magic of this legendary showdown between two powerhouse teams and witness the defining moments that shaped NBA history.
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