Home History Corner The Celtics beat the Suns in triple overtime in the NBA Finals...

The Celtics beat the Suns in triple overtime in the NBA Finals on this date in 1976

BOSTON - 1976: John Havlicek #17 of the Boston Celtics drives up court against the Phoenix Suns during a game in the 1976 NBA Finals played at the Boston Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. The Boston Celtics defeated the Phoenix Suns 4-2 and won the the 1976 NBA Championship. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 1976 NBAE (Photo by Dick Raphael/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Celtics, led by Jo Jo White, prevailed at home in Boston over the Phoenix Suns. Boston held on for a 128-126 win in triple overtime to take a 3-2 series lead.

White finished with 33 points, nine assists and six rebounds.

The Celtics trailed by 110-109 with time running out in double overtime, when John Havlicek banked in a go-ahead shot. Time appeared to expire and fans stormed the court. However, one second was put back on the clock.

The Suns gave up a technical free throw to advance the ball and trailed by two. As time expired, Gar Heard hit a contested jump shot to tie the game and force a third overtime. He ended up playing 61 minutes in the game.

1976 NBA Finals Game 5 Heard Shot Round The World

In the third overtime, Boston took a 128-122 lead. Phoenix cut the lead to 128-126 but never got the ball back before time expired.

Boston won Game 6 87-80 on the the road to clinch the NBA Finals.

Exit mobile version