NBA Cup Recap: Nuggets Collapse in Final Minute, Celtics Nearly Blow 24-Point Lead
The first eight NBA Cup games have concluded, with eight teams advancing to the next stage. The most thrilling matchup featured the Celtics and the 76ers.
Celtics vs. 76ers Game Summary
The Celtics defeated the 76ers 109–108 despite nearly losing a 24-point lead. Early in the game, the Celtics established dominance with a 16–3 run in the first quarter, taking their first double-digit lead.
- In the second quarter, Boston extended their lead to 24 points.
- The 76ers fought back with a 15–2 run, reducing the gap to 11 by halftime.
- During the third quarter, Philadelphia closed to within two points, but Boston responded with another run to regain a 12-point lead.
- With three minutes left, the Celtics held a 10-point advantage, but the 76ers mounted a late rally to cut the score to 109–108 with 21 seconds remaining.
Despite the comeback effort, the 76ers fell short and the Celtics secured the narrow victory.
"Jaylen Brown led the winning team with 32 points and 6 assists, while Tyrese Maxey finished with 26 points, 14 assists, and 8 rebounds."
Nuggets' Last-Minute Defeat
The Denver Nuggets experienced an unexpected loss to the Trail Blazers in a closely contested game. Denver led by five points with one minute remaining but could not maintain their advantage.
Author's summary: The NBA Cup's early rounds delivered intense drama, highlighted by the Celtics' narrow win after nearly surrendering a large lead and the Nuggets' surprising late defeat.