The Boston Celtics faced a tough 133-131 loss against the short-handed Indiana Pacers on Monday night, marked by some last-second drama.
In a tied game at 131 with only three seconds left, Jaylen Brown went up for what could have been a game-winning shot. However, Pacers" defender Buddy Hield tried to block the shot from behind and appeared to make contact with the back of Brown"s head during the play.
Initially ruled as a foul, the Pacers challenged the call. In a surprising twist, the foul was overturned, granting Indiana possession of the ball. Despite missing star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, who left the court earlier due to injury, the Pacers advanced up the court and drew a foul from Kristaps Porzingis on a last-second shot attempt, securing the win.
Joe Mazzulla says Buddy Hield told him he fouled Jaylen Brown on that last play:
"I can’t wait for 4pm tomorrow" pic.twitter.com/WgtGic4Feg
— Noa Dalzell 🏀 (@NoaDalzellNBA) January 9, 2024
After the game, Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla revealed that Hield approached him after the challenge and admitted to fouling Brown. Mazzulla expressed anticipation for the two-minute report.
Although Brown was denied two potential game-winning free throws, the two-time All-Star delivered an outstanding performance in the absence of Jayson Tatum, who was resting his ankle. Brown achieved a new season-high with 40 points, along with five rebounds and two assists.
The loss to the Pacers on Monday night means that Boston and Indiana will split their season series at 2-2, showcasing a growing competitive and gritty rivalry between the two teams.
