NBA Cup Recap: Nuggets Collapse in Final Minute, Celtics Nearly Blow +24 Lead
The opening round of NBA Cup action wrapped up with eight teams moving forward. The biggest thrills came from the matchups between the 76ers and Celtics, along with the surprising finish between the Nuggets and Trail Blazers.
Celtics Edge 76ers in Tight Finish
Boston defeated Philadelphia 109–108 in a tense encounter. Despite leading by 24 points earlier in the game, the Celtics nearly squandered their advantage but ultimately held on for the win.
Boston started strong, opening a double-digit lead after a 16–3 run in the first quarter. They extended the margin to 24 in the second, but the 76ers responded with a 15–2 surge, trimming the deficit to 11 by halftime.
In the third period, the 76ers closed the gap to two points before Boston rebuilt its lead to 12. The final minutes saw a furious Philadelphia comeback that reduced the difference to one point with 21 seconds on the clock.
"We made it harder than it needed to be, but a win’s a win," said a Celtics player after the game.
Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 32 points and 6 assists. Tyrese Maxey stood out for the 76ers, recording 26 points, 14 assists, and 8 rebounds.
Nuggets Fall Late to Trail Blazers
Denver suffered a surprising defeat against Portland. The clash remained close throughout, but the Nuggets surrendered a five-point lead in the final minute, allowing the Trail Blazers to steal the victory.
Summary
The Celtics survived a near-collapse against Philadelphia, while Denver stumbled in the closing seconds against Portland in a dramatic night of NBA Cup action.
Author’s summary: Dramatic comebacks, missed chances, and narrow escapes defined the latest NBA Cup clashes, leaving fans with jaw-dropping finishes and renewed excitement for the next round.