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The Boston Celtics made their case for one of the best teams in the NBA with their defense under new head coach Ime Udoka. In Game 1 of the 2022 NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors, they put it on full display with the game on the line.
The Celtics, facing a 12-point deficit entering the fourth quarter, outscored the Warriors 40-16 to win the game 120-108. Thanks to a 17-0 run that flipped the game on its head, the Celtics lead the series 1-0.
Udoka revealed the key to the Celtics' comeback. They increased their intensity on defense, forcing the Warriors into tough shots and four turnovers in the period.
Ime Udoka on the fourth quarter defense: "We got up into guys much better. We stayed tight to them. Seemed like we kind of wore them down a little bit."
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) June 3, 2022
The Celtics' defense looked very vulnerable in the third quarter when they allowed 38 points. Once the final period rolled around, Udoka lit a fire under his squad to finish the game strong. They capitalized on the Warriors' mistakes and kept their foot all the way on the gas. On offense, Al Horford and Derrick White hit the big shots to keep the momentum going.
Udoka's ability to rally his team and make adjustments has been incredible for a rookie head coach. His midseason turnaround gave the Celtics new life and propelled them into the playoffs and through the postseason.
Boston showed the Warriors that they truly belong on the biggest stage. Despite not having as much experience as Golden State in the NBA Finals, they stayed composed when facing a big lead late in the game.
