Photo via celticslife.com

Ray Allen’s 51 points were not enough for the Boston Celtics, as the Chicago Bulls held on to win 128-127 at home after three overtimes, tying their first-round series at three games apiece.

Allen was efficient, going 18-32 on field goals, including 9-18 on 3-pointers. He hit a game-tying 3-pointer with time expiring in the double overtime.

Despite Allen’s heroics, the Bulls found a way to survive and extend the series. The Bulls trailed by eight with three minutes remaining in regulation but came back to tie the game.

Derrick Rose, at the time a rookie, was excellent, finishing with 28 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. He also blocked Rajon Rondo with time running out in triple overtime to save the game for the Bulls.

The Bulls also got major contributions from some unlikely heroes in the game. John Salmons had 35 points, and Brad Miller finished with 23 points and 10 rebounds off the bench.

Despite the Bulls thrilling victory, the Celtics won Game 7, 109-99, and advanced to the second round of the postseason. Allen led the way with 23 points.

The Celtics lost to the Orlando Magic in seven games the second round. The Los Angeles Lakers went on to beat the Magic in five games in the 2009 NBA Finals.