THE BOSTON CELTICS took a 3-2 lead over the Miami Heat in their NBA Eastern Conference finals series with a 94-90 win on Tuesday.
Kevin Garnett (26 points and 11 rebounds) and Paul Pierce (19 points) led the way for the Celtics, who are just a win away from booking their place in the NBA finals for the third time in five years.
The Celtics recorded the win at the American Airlines Arena despite strong performances for the Heat from superstars LeBron James (30 points and 13 rebounds) and Dwyane Wade (27 points).
The loss leaves Miami facing a must-win game at the TD Garden on Thursday if they are to keep the series alive.
Miami led by as many as 13 points in the first half before the Celtics went on an 8-0 run to be within two at the main break.
Boston carried the momentum into the second half but a three-pointer from Shane Battier gave the Heat a 57-50 lead.
But the Celtics responded again, and they led 65-60 at the end of the third quarter after finishing with a decisive 15-1 run.
The Heat continually challenged in the fourth quarter, but Pierce hit a vital three-pointer with 52.9 seconds remaining and the Celtics held on for a crucial win.
Game 6 of the series is in Boston, before the teams head back to Miami if a deciding Game 7 is required.
YouTube credit: NBAHiighlights
