Historic First Quarter in Game 1 of 2024 NBA Finals
The Boston Celtics seized an early and commanding lead in Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals with a historic first quarter, setting the stage for a significant victory. By the end of the first quarter, the Celtics were ahead 37-20 over the Dallas Mavericks. This 17-point advantage marked the largest lead ever recorded after a quarter in NBA Finals history. The strong start was a key factor in the Celtics' eventual 107-89 triumph over the Mavericks.
Unprecedented First Quarter Lead
The Boston Celtics' explosive performance in the opening quarter of Game 1 was unprecedented. From the onset, the Celtics dominated both offensively and defensively, effectively neutralizing the Mavericks' strategies. Scoring 37 points in a single quarter of the Finals showcased the Celtics' offensive prowess and set a new benchmark in NBA Finals history by achieving the largest lead after just one quarter of play.
Game 1 Victory Details
The Celtics continued to build on their early lead throughout the game, ultimately securing a 107-89 victory over the Mavericks. The victory, while significant, did not rank among the largest blowouts in NBA Finals history. However, the 17-point first-quarter lead cemented this game in the history books and underscored the Celtics' dominance at the start of the series.
Biggest Blowouts in NBA Finals History
While the Celtics' 2024 win was impressive, it didn't make the cut for the biggest blowouts in NBA Finals history. The following list highlights the most decisive victories:
- 1998 NBA Finals: Chicago Bulls vs. Utah Jazz - Bulls won 96-54. This game holds the record for the fewest points scored by a team in NBA playoff history with Utah’s 54 points.
- 2008 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers - Celtics won 131-92.
- 2013 NBA Finals: San Antonio Spurs vs. Miami Heat - Spurs won 113-77.
- 1978 NBA Finals: Washington Bullets vs. Seattle SuperSonics - Bullets won 117-82.
- 1985 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers - Celtics won 148-114. The 148 points scored by the Celtics remain the highest ever in an NBA Finals game.
- 1961 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. St. Louis Hawks - Celtics won 129-95.
Memorable Quotes from Historic Performances
The 2024 NBA Finals and past historic performances have left an indelible mark on the sport, often captured in memorable quotes that echo the significance of these moments:
- "The Boston Celtics stormed out to a 37-20 lead over the Dallas Mavericks after the first quarter of Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals."
- "The 17-point advantage marked the largest advantage after a quarter of play in NBA Finals history."
- "Utah's 54 points remain the fewest by a team in NBA playoff history."
- "It marked the largest blowout in a closeout game in NBA Finals history and sealed Boston's first championship since 1986."
- "The 148 points by the Celtics are still the most ever in an NBA Finals game."
Final Thoughts
The 2024 NBA Finals, starting with such a historic first quarter, will be remembered for the Boston Celtics' record-setting performance. The 37-20 lead at the end of the first quarter set a new standard and highlighted the team’s exceptional ability to dominate early in a high-stakes game. While the victory itself was not the biggest blowout in NBA history, it reaffirmed the Celtics' place among the historic greats of the sport. As the Finals continue, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if the Celtics can maintain their early momentum and perhaps add another championship to their storied legacy.