Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard credited focus and team effort after his season-high 42 points helped Boston edge the Cleveland Cavaliers 117-115 on Sunday at Rocket Arena.
“Just like disappointed off how I played last night in Minnesota. So, I wanted to come out here and give them everything I got tonight and try to pull out this win off back-to-back,” Pritchard said, reflecting on his aggressive approach despite early foul trouble.
Pritchard acknowledged the challenges posed by Cleveland’s star players, including Donovan Mitchell. “Star players are going to make big plays… it takes a team to stop those guys, but we did a good job,” he said, praising Boston’s ability to maintain composure in the final minutes.
The Celtics leaned on their reserves, with Jordan Walsh and Xavier Tillman stepping up in the absence of Derrick White and Neemias Queta. “X being a pro… came in and he was huge. Moments like this never surprise me,” Pritchard said, noting Walsh’s defensive impact and clutch rebounding.
Pritchard also highlighted Jaylen Brown’s leadership and all-around contribution. “A triple-double tonight… helps get our team going. He’s an exceptional player, a top player in this league,” he said, crediting Brown for facilitating and energizing the lineup.
Boston built a 21-point lead in the third quarter, but Cleveland narrowed the margin with late threes from Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland. Pritchard responded by sinking two crucial free throws with 5.9 seconds left, preserving the Celtics’ two-point lead.
The guard finished 15-of-22 from the field and 6-of-11 from three, leading Boston’s offense while his teammates contributed through timely defensive plays and rebounds. Jordan Walsh posted career highs with 14 points and 11 boards, providing depth that proved decisive.
Evan Mobley led Cleveland with 27 points and 14 rebounds, while Garland added 21 points and eight assists, but the Cavaliers’ 20 made three-pointers were not enough to overcome Boston’s efficient inside scoring and Pritchard’s relentless attack.
The Celtics improve to 11-9 and will host the New York Knicks on Tuesday, while the Cavaliers drop to 12-9 and travel to Indiana to face the Pacers on Monday.
