The Boston Celtics used a balanced assault to close down reigning Finals MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and the remainder of the defending champion Bucks for a 109-81 win and a ticket to the Jap Convention Finals.

5 Celtics scored in double figures, led by Grant Williams’ 27 factors, 21 of these factors coming off of seven three-pointers.

“I informed him [Williams] to let it fly. They’re disrespecting you tonight,” Boston coach Ime Udoka mentioned after the sport.

Williams began sluggish however then began making threes, ending with a whopping 18 makes an attempt to interrupt Steph Curry’s report.

“Every one, as time went on, acquired extra snug,” mentioned Williams. “It was simply nice that we acquired a win.”

Williams’s efficiency was proof of the belief Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown developed for his or her teammates.

Tatum had 23 factors, Brown had 19, and Payton Pritchard chipped in 14 factors with 4 three-pointers.

“My mantra for the collection was ‘take what they offer us and let it fly,’” mentioned Udoka. “We felt we had been very near having a extremely good offensive recreation and blowing it open.”

Nonetheless, it was the Celtics’ protection that put a lid on Giannis within the second half permitting him simply eight factors after scoring 17 factors within the first half.

Brooke Lopez added 11 factors, however the remainder of the Bucks struggled, capturing 36.7 % from the sector and a dismal 12.1 % from behind the arc.

“Give lots of credit score and lots of respect to the Boston gamers, the teaching employees, coach Udoka; phenomenal job,” mentioned Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer. “They had been the higher workforce.”

The Bucks sorely missed injured capturing guard Kris Middleton.

“We might have used him. He makes massive photographs and massive performs, particularly on the offensive finish,” mentioned Jrue Vacation. ” It’s actually no excuse. Sport 7. You’ve gotta discover a approach.”

The Celtics and Warmth tip-off Tuesday in Miami.