BOSTON — The Celtics punched back at their bullies in Game 3 of the NBA Finals.
Boston's 19-rebound edge on the glass was evidence of a forceful response to the Golden State Warriors' blowout victory in Game 2, while Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum and Marcus Smart combined for 77 points in a 116-100 victory. The Celtics take a 2-1 lead in the series ahead of a home Game 4 on Friday at 9 p.m. ET.
Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 31 points in defeat.
If ever there was a doubt the Celtics would match the energy the Warriors brought in Game 2, Boston answered it in the opening quarter.