BOSTON — The Celtics leaned on their established foundation Friday night, with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown coming up big in a Game 3 win over the Philadelphia 76ers.
In a matchup that demanded composure, the longtime Boston duo delivered when the stakes were highest, reflecting the countless moments they’ve faced together under playoff pressure. Against a 76ers team intent on challenging Boston’s top options, Tatum and Brown’s impact stood out as the defining storyline of the night.
The win was described within the Celtics’ camp as “fun,” a nod to the energy and edge that often accompany postseason battles — and to the confidence that can come from responding to a major test.
A familiar standard in a familiar setting
Tatum and Brown have been at the center of Boston’s identity for years, and Friday’s result served as another example of how the Celtics look when their two stars meet the moment. With the series intensity rising, their ability to deliver on a big stage again proved pivotal in separating Boston in Game 3.
For the Celtics, the performance reinforced a simple reality: when their leading duo is sharp and decisive, Boston’s ceiling rises — and the margin for error shrinks for opponents like Philadelphia.