**Historic First Quarter in Game 1 of 2024 NBA Finals**
The Boston Celtics made NBA history by leading 37-20 at the end of the first quarter in Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks. This 17-point lead marked the largest advantage after a quarter in NBA Finals history.
**Game 1 Recap: Celtics Triumph Over Mavericks**
Boston showcased their dominance early on, cruising to a 107-89 victory over the Mavericks. While the final score did not result in one of the most lopsided victories in NBA Finals history, the decisive first quarter set the tone for the game. The Celtics capitalized on their early momentum, making it clear that they were a force to be reckoned with in the series.
**Largest Leads and Biggest Blowouts**
The 2024 NBA Finals game might be remembered for its historic first quarter, but it didn't quite make it into the annals of the greatest blowouts in NBA Finals history. Here are some of the most notable blowouts in NBA Finals history:
- 1998 NBA Finals: Chicago Bulls vs. Utah Jazz: The Bulls dominated the Jazz with a resounding 96-54 victory. This game remains iconic, as Utah’s 54 points are still the fewest ever scored by a team in the NBA playoffs.
- 2008 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers: The Celtics showcased their supremacy by beating the Lakers 131-92, securing a place in NBA history.
- 2013 NBA Finals: San Antonio Spurs vs. Miami Heat: The Spurs defeated the Heat 113-77 in a memorable game that left fans in awe of San Antonio's precision and teamwork.
- 1978 NBA Finals: Washington Bullets vs. Seattle SuperSonics: The Bullets claimed a commanding 117-82 victory in a game that highlighted their dominance.
- 1985 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers: The Celtics crushed the Lakers 148-114. Notably, the Celtics' 148 points are still the most ever scored in an NBA Finals game.
- 1961 NBA Finals: Boston Celtics vs. St. Louis Hawks: In another memorable game, the Celtics secured a 129-95 victory over the Hawks.
**Quotes from Historic Performances**
Reflecting on the 2024 NBA Finals Game 1, several quotes emphasize the significance and impact of Boston's performance:
"The Boston Celtics stormed out to a 37-20 lead over the Dallas Mavericks after the first quarter of Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Finals," commented one analyst. "The 17-point advantage marked the largest advantage after a quarter of play in NBA Finals history."
"Utah's 54 points remain the fewest by a team in NBA playoff history," noted another source, reflecting on past Finals games.
"It marked the largest blowout in a closeout game in NBA Finals history and sealed Boston's first championship since 1986," hinted a commentator, harkening back to the Celtics' 2008 triumph.
"The 148 points by the Celtics are still the most ever in an NBA Finals game," an expert added, underlining the team's historic scoring prowess.
**Looking Ahead**
As the 2024 NBA Finals progress, all eyes will be on the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks. The Celtics have already cemented their place in the record books with their unprecedented first-quarter performance in Game 1. However, the series is far from over, and both teams will be looking to make their mark in NBA history.
Whether Boston can continue its dominant run or Dallas will stage a remarkable comeback, this Finals series promises to deliver thrilling basketball action and potentially more historic moments.
Stay tuned as the 2024 NBA Finals continue to unfold, and the quest for the championship intensifies.