Heat Vs Celtics

Celtics Conclude Grueling Series, Advance to NBA Finals

Seven-Game Thriller Ends with Celtics Victory

5 Takeaways from Celtics' Game 6 Triumph

The Boston Celtics have punched their ticket to the NBA Finals, defeating the Miami Heat 100-96 in a thrilling Game 7 showdown on Sunday night.

The Celtics held off a late charge from the Heat, who had rallied from a 14-point deficit to tie the game with just over three minutes remaining. But Boston's defense stepped up in the clutch, forcing Miami into several key turnovers and contested shots.

"We knew it was going to be a tough series, and we just had to stay together and keep fighting," said Celtics star Jayson Tatum, who led all scorers with 26 points. "We're excited to be moving on to the Finals, but we know there's still a lot of work to do."

The Heat were led by Jimmy Butler, who finished with 24 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. But it wasn't enough to overcome the Celtics' balanced attack and suffocating defense.

The Celtics will now face the Western Conference champion Denver Nuggets in the NBA Finals, which begin on Thursday night.