Game 4 2022 NBA Finals, was a pivotal showdown in the championship series, held on June 10, 2022, at the TD Garden in Boston. The Golden State Warriors and the Boston Celtics were locked in a fierce battle, with the series tied at 2-1 in favor of the Celtics. The stakes were high, and both teams knew that a win would be crucial for their championship aspirations.
Pre-Game Atmosphere
The atmosphere in Boston was electric, with fans eager to support their team as they sought to reclaim the series lead. The Celtics, buoyed by their strong defensive performances and home-court advantage, were ready to capitalize on the momentum they had built in previous games. The Warriors, led by their core of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, were determined to even the series and regain their footing.
First Half: A Defensive Showcase
The game began with both teams exhibiting strong defensive strategies. The Celtics’ defense was stifling, with Marcus Smart and Jaylen Brown putting pressure on the Warriors’ ball handlers. Despite this, Curry showcased his scoring ability, hitting several deep three-pointers to keep Golden State in contention.
By halftime, the score was tight, with the Celtics leading by just a few points. Jayson Tatum and Brown combined for key baskets, while Robert Williams III made an impact defensively, altering shots in the paint and securing rebounds.
Second Half: Celtics Pull Ahead
As the second half began, the intensity ramped up. The Celtics found their rhythm, executing fast breaks and knocking down crucial three-pointers. Tatum, who had been inconsistent in earlier games, turned in a stellar performance, scoring with confidence and playmaking for his teammates.
Golden State struggled to find their footing offensively, as the Celtics’ defense continued to disrupt their rhythm. The third quarter saw Boston build a significant lead, taking advantage of turnovers and missed opportunities from the Warriors.
The Final Quarter: Warriors Rally
Entering the fourth quarter, the Celtics held a comfortable lead, but the Warriors were far from finished. With their championship pedigree, Golden State mounted a furious comeback. Curry, ever the clutch performer, hit back-to-back threes, reigniting the Warriors’ hopes and electrifying their fans.
However, the Celtics remained composed. Key contributions from Brown and Smart, including timely free throws and defensive stops, helped Boston maintain their lead. In the final minutes, the game became a nail-biting affair, with both teams exchanging baskets and defensive stands.
Conclusion: Celtics Take Control
In the end, the Boston Celtics emerged victorious, winning Game 4 with a final score of 107-97. Tatum led the way with a stellar performance, earning a double-double and solidifying his status as a rising star in the league. The win not only gave the Celtics a 3-1 series lead but also shifted the momentum firmly in their favor.
Game 4 of the 2022 NBA Finals showcased the heart and determination of the Celtics, while also highlighting the Warriors’ resilience. As the series moved to Game 5, all eyes were on the Celtics to see if they could close it out and claim their 18th championship title. The thrilling nature of this game left fans eager for more as the Finals continued to unfold.