When the Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics tip off on Sunday, they'll be adding another chapter to the most storied Game 7 rivalry in NBA history. For the ninth time—a league record—these two iconic franchises will face off in a winner-take-all showdown.
This rivalry runs deep, stretching all the way back to 1959. No two teams have met more often in Game 7s, and both know the pressure of the moment well. The Celtics hold the all-time record for most Game 7 wins with 27, while the 76ers have unfortunately experienced the most Game 7 losses with 12. Heading into Sunday, Boston leads the head-to-head series 6-2.
Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most unforgettable Game 7s between these two powerhouses.
1959 Eastern Division Finals: Celtics 130, Syracuse Nationals 125
This one goes way back—so far that the 76ers were still the Syracuse Nationals, Barbie had just been introduced, and Disney's "Sleeping Beauty" was in theaters. Boston erased an eight-point halftime deficit, powered by Bill Russell's monstrous 18-point, 32-rebound performance. Bob Cousy chipped in 25 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds to seal the win.
1965 Eastern Division Finals: Celtics 110, 76ers 109
With just five seconds left and Boston clinging to a one-point lead, Philadelphia had the ball and a chance to steal the game. Then came one of the most iconic moments in NBA history. Celtics Hall of Famer John Havlicek deflected the inbounds pass, prompting legendary broadcaster Johnny Most to scream, "Havlicek stole the ball! Havlicek stole the ball! It's all over!" Boston ran out the clock for the win, while Wilt Chamberlain put up an incredible 30 points and 32 rebounds in a losing effort.
1968 Eastern Division Finals: Celtics 100, 76ers 96
This series had a familiar ring to it—but with the roles reversed. The 76ers were the top seed with 62 wins and jumped out to a commanding 3-1 series lead. But Boston stormed back, forcing a Game 7 in Philadelphia. Under the bright lights, the 76ers struggled, shooting just 35.2% from the field and a miserable 55.6% from the free throw line. Bill Russell delivered a triple-double with 12 points, 26 rebounds, and assists to lead Boston to victory.
As we gear up for Sunday's clash, one thing is clear: when the Celtics and 76ers meet in a Game 7, history is always on the line. Whether you're repping the green or the blue, this is the kind of rivalry that defines the NBA.