Paul Pierce picked up right where he left off last season, scoring 27 points as Boston opened defense of its NBA title by holding off the Cleveland Cavaliers, 90-85, on a celebratory night at TD Banknorth Garden.
Prior to the game, the Celtics lifted their 17th championship banner to the rafters, their first title since 1986. It was nearly four months ago the Celtics beat the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA Finals, and they began the 2008-09 season with a comeback win over LeBron James and the Cavs in a rematch of a thrilling seven-game Eastern Conference semifinal.
Kevin Garnett, playing in his 999th regular season game, added 11 points and six rebounds, while Ray Allen, the other member of Boston's big three from last season, was limited to eight points on 2-of-9 shooting. The Celtics, though, also got 14 points from Rajon Rondo and 13 from Leon Powe, including a game-sealing jam in the waning seconds.
It was a particularly emotional moment prior to the game. John Havlicek, who won eight titles with Boston, carried the championship trophy onto the court and handed it to Pierce, the Finals MVP, who then cried.
The Celtics were then given their championship rings prior to the banner being raised.
James had 22 points, seven rebounds and six assists, but missed a driving layup and a pair of free throws in the final 10.6 seconds. Zydrunas Ilgauskas tallied 15 points and eight rebounds. Mo Williams, who was acquired in a three-team trade this offseason, finished with 12 points.
