Boston Celtics Hit Late 3 Pointer to Beat New York Knicks in Series Opener

The New York Knicks squad has much less experience than their counterparts on the Boston Celtics. The Celtics won the championship in 2008 and lost in the seventh game of the finals last year. The Knicks last postseason victory was in April of 2001. The difference in experience showed on Sunday night as the Celtics were able to close out the game late with clutch shooting that the Knicks couldn't match. The Celtics won the game 87-85.

It didn't help that New York's most clutch shooter, Chauncey Billups, had to leave the game with less than a minute remaining due to injury. He said he either strained his left knee or thigh muscle but his presence was certainly missed as the clock wound down. His replacement Toney Dougles hit a three point shot with 39 seconds left to put the Knicks up 85-82 but the Celtics quickly closed the gap with an alley-oop from Rajon Rondo to Kevin Garnett.

With 21 seconds left and a one point lead Carmelo Anthony was called for an offensive foul after he pushed Paul Pierce. After the game Anthony did not agree with the call but Boston coach Doc Rivers said it was correct.

On the inbound pass following the foul Ray Allen passed to Pierce from around the half-court line. After the pass Allen circled around to the other side, got the ball back, and hit the shot that put the Celtics ahead 87-85.