By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered – at least in the first half – in Game 7 with a total of 25 points, 20 rebounds, and nine assists. However, the Celtics dominated the second half on the way to an easy 109-81 win over the Bucks in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Grant Williams made a difference for the winning side with 27 points and seven made threes. He made key plays at the start of the third period when the Celtics built a double-digit lead and never looked back.
Jayson Tatum added 23 points and Jalen Brown had 19 for Boston.
The game was close in the first half with the Bucks leading early by 10 (24-14) while trailing by five (48-43) at the end of the second period.
Giannis already had 17 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists after the first two quarters.
Without him on the court or performing at the top level, the Bucks were clearly in trouble. Jrue Holiday scored 21 points but most of them when the outcome was already decided.
In the most crucial game of the season, the Bucks shot just 4/33 threes, while Giannis Antetokounmpo became the first player in NBA playoff history to record 200 points, 100 rebounds, and 50 assists in a series. Boston on the other hand registered a new Game 7 record with 21 made threes.
The Celtics will face Miami which has the home-court advantage in the Eastern Conference Finals.