Los Angeles. – The Portland Trail Blazers and the Philadelphia 76ers struck a blow as visitors this Tuesday by defeating the San Antonio Spurs and the Boston Celtics, respectively, tying their first-round series in the NBA playoffs 1-1.
You may be interested in: Dominican Jean Montero (Valencia), best young player in the Euroleague
Portland Capitalizes on Wembanyama's Departure
Portland's 106-103 victory was marked by the departure of Frenchman Victor Wembanyama, who left the game in the second quarter after suffering a head injury following a collision. The center was subjected to the concussion protocol and did not return to the game.
Despite the absence of their rival star, the Spurs responded with a 13-point streak at the start of the last quarter, but the Blazers held on at the end.
Scoot Henderson led Portland with 31 points, while Donovan Clingan dominated the boards with 11 rebounds. A decisive dunk by Robert Williams III in the final seconds made the difference.
San Antonio had the opportunity to tie, but Devin Vassell's three-point attempt did not find the hoop against the defensive pressure of Matisse Thybulle.
The series will now move to Portland, where the next two matches will be played.
Philadelphia Imposes Character in Boston
In the East, the Philadelphia 76ers silenced the TD Garden after defeating the Boston Celtics 111-97.
Bahamian VJ Edgecombe was the star with a double-double of 30 points and 10 rebounds, well supported by Tyrese Maxey, who added 29 points and nine assists.
Veteran Paul George also contributed with 19 points, contributing to a solid collective performance that allowed Philadelphia to regain home-court advantage.
By Boston, Jalen Brown stood out with 36 points, although his effort was not enough to avoid the defeat.
The series will now move to Philadelphia, where the Sixers will look to capitalize on the momentum in front of their fans in the next two games.
Spanish
