76ers Stun Celtics In Game 3 Overtime Thriller

76ers Stun Celtics In Game 3 Overtime Thriller...

The Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Boston Celtics 112-109 in a dramatic overtime victory during Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinals series Friday night. Joel Embiid led the 76ers with 32 points and 13 rebounds, while Tyrese Maxey's clutch three-pointer in overtime sealed the win. The victory gives Philadelphia a 2-1 series lead and shifts momentum in the tightly contested playoff battle.

The game is trending nationally as fans react to the high-stakes showdown between two historic NBA rivals. Social media erupted after Maxey's game-winning shot, with #76ers and #Celtics both trending on Twitter. The matchup drew record viewership on ESPN, reflecting intense interest in the rivalry.

Boston's Jayson Tatum scored 36 points but missed a potential tying three-pointer at the buzzer. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla criticized officiating postgame, particularly a late foul call on Al Horford that sent Embiid to the line. The controversial moments fueled heated online debates among basketball analysts and fans.

Game 4 is scheduled for Sunday at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. With the series now favoring the 76ers, pressure mounts on the Celtics to avoid falling into a 3-1 deficit. Both teams are considered championship contenders, raising the stakes for each playoff game.

The rivalry dates back decades but has intensified in recent years as both franchises chase their first titles since 2008 (Celtics) and 1983 (76ers). Ticket prices for Sunday's game have surged 40% since Friday's result, according to secondary market data.