The Boston Celtics have a golden opportunity to close out the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 6 of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series on Thursday night—and history is firmly on their side.
After taking a commanding 3-1 series lead with back-to-back wins in Philadelphia, the Celtics stumbled at home in Game 5 on Tuesday. Joel Embiid, playing just his second game since returning from injury, dropped a game-high 33 points to keep the Sixers alive. But despite that hiccup, Boston still holds a 3-2 advantage and is in prime position to advance.
What makes this even more promising for Celtics fans? A staggering historical trend. Boston has won all 32 playoff series in which they’ve taken a 3-1 lead. Meanwhile, the 76ers have never come back from a 3-1 deficit in 18 such series, according to 76ers reporter Derek Bodner of PHLY Sports.
Game 6 tips off at 8 p.m. ET on Thursday at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. If the Celtics can’t finish it there, a potential Game 7 would be back at TD Garden on Saturday—where Boston’s home-court advantage and deep playoff pedigree could seal the deal.
For fans gearing up for the playoff push, this is the kind of momentum that makes you want to rep your team’s colors with pride. Whether you’re watching from the stands or your living room, make sure you’re suited up in Celtics gear for what could be a series-clinching night.
