A Night for the History Books
On Wednesday, the TD Garden in Boston witnessed a historic performance that will be etched in the annals of the NBA. Payton Pritchard and Derrick White combined to make 19 3-pointers, shattering the record for the most 3-pointers made by a pair of teammates in a single game. The duo led the Boston Celtics to a 128-118 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers, setting new career highs in points and 3-pointers in the process. Pritchard finished with 43 points, including 10-of-16 from 3-point range, while White wasn’t far behind with 41 points and 9-of-17 from beyond the arc. This achievement not only highlighted their individual skills but also solidified their place in Celtics history as the first teammates to each score 40 or more points in the same game.
Seizing the Opportunity
With key players like Jayson Tatum, Kristaps Porzingis, and Jrue Holiday sidelined due to injuries and illness, Pritchard and White stepped up to the plate. Their performance was a testament to the depth and versatility of the Celtics roster. Coach Joe Mazzulla praised their efforts, emphasizing how their play reflected their character and dedication to the team. “They were tremendous,” Mazzulla said. “With the guys out and playing against a really good Portland team, we knew we needed to have guys step up. The way those two guys played just shows a lot about who they are.” Pritchard and White are often the glue that holds the team together, handling the "dirty work" when everyone is healthy. This game, however, was their moment to shine, and they did not disappoint.
Pritchard’s Personal Milestone
Pritchard’s night was particularly significant on a personal level. Growing up just outside Portland and attending the University of Oregon, playing against his hometown team added an extra layer of emotion to his performance. He was just one 3-pointer shy of Marcus Smart’s franchise record (11), but chose not to force shots in the fourth quarter, emphasizing that securing the win was the ultimate goal. “The biggest thing was getting the W. And they made a little push, so I wasn’t gonna force a look that wasn’t there,” Pritchard explained. “That’s disrespectful to the game and my teammates.” Pritchard’s career night against the Blazers was not only a milestone in his professional career but also a dream come true for a kid who grew up watching the team.
A Team Effort
Despite the individual achievements, both Pritchard and White maintained a team-first mentality. “Tonight was fun, but like, we know what the bigger picture is, and we know what we’re working for and what we’re working towards,” White said. “And so, I mean, it’s not about me, and it never will be about me. And so whatever the team needs, whatever it is that night, I gotta do it and just help us win games.” This attitude is a hallmark of the Celtics’ culture and reflects the team’s commitment to collective success over individual accolades. The players’ ability to rise to the occasion when called upon is a testament to their resilience and dedication to the team’s goals.
Postgame Celebrations and Reflections
The postgame atmosphere was filled with excitement and pride. Pritchard’s interview was interrupted by ex-Celtic Evan Turner, who praised him as “the best No. 11 ever” — a nod to the jersey number Turner once wore with the C’s. Pritchard has averaged 16.3 points in seven games against Portland, his highest against any opponent, highlighting the special connection he has with his hometown team. White echoed the sentiment, calling their performance "unbelievable" but quickly shifting the focus back to the team’s objectives. Their humility and team-first attitude underscored the importance of their roles within the Celtics organization.
Looking Ahead
The Celtics will host the Philadelphia 76ers on the second night of a back-to-back on Thursday, with tip-off scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Boston. While the team will celebrate this historic victory, they know that the road ahead is long and challenging. Pritchard and White’s performance serves as a reminder of the depth and talent within the Celtics roster, and the team will look to build on this momentum as they face tough opponents in the coming weeks. Their ability to step up in clutch moments will be crucial as the Celtics continue to strive for their ultimate goal: a championship.
