Miami Heat Advance Past Boston Celtics to Conference Finals

Prior to last night's game against the Miami Heat the Boston Celtics had never lost a playoff series in less than seven games. The Heat changed that and sent the Celtics packing in five with a 10 point win, 97-87. The win brings the Heat eight wins away from the NBA Title and validation for bringing together Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh in the offseason.

For the Heat Wade scored 34 points to go with 10 rebounds and five assists. James was close with 33 points and scored the game's last 10 points by himself as the Heat went on a 16-0 run to close out the game and the series.

After the game James was very emotional about beating the team that had so often caused him issues in years past. After the game he acknowledged how important the win was in moving past the Celtics and also moving on from last summer's "The Decision" and the backlash that came from signing with Miami.

"I'd be up here for two hours if I tell you exactly everything that went through my head. Very emotional at that point, you know, and happy we got through it as a team," he said.

For the Celtics Ray Allen lead the team with 18 points. Kevin Garnett had 15 points and 11 rebounds and Paul Pierce scored 12. It was clear that Boston's original Big Three were aging and at the end of the reign as Miami begins to take center stage.

The Heat will have to face the winner of the Hawks-Bulls series in the Conference Finals to advance to the Championship round.