Celtics Fend Off Mavericks Run, Win Game 1

Brown, Porzingis Lead Boston's Victory

Dallas' Early Deficit Proves Costly

BOSTON, Mass. - The Boston Celtics overcame a slow start to defeat the Dallas Mavericks 95-85 in Game 1 of their NBA Western Conference Semifinals series on Tuesday night.

Despite trailing by as many as 15 points in the first half, Boston rallied behind Jaylen Brown's 22 points. Kristaps Porzingis, acquired by the Celtics in a mid-season trade, came off the bench to contribute 20 points and 10 rebounds.

The Mavericks were led by Luka Dončić's 25 points and 10 assists, but they struggled from three-point range, shooting just 3-of-13.

Game 2 of the series is scheduled for Thursday night in Boston.