In between claps for emphasis — and a pause, as if to build anticipation — Jayson Tatum acknowledged last spring that of all the postseason thrills, Game Three’s environment stands as his favorite. Even under the less-than-ideal circumstances of a 0-2 series hole on his opponents’ home floor, the six-time All-Star devised the perfect method for celebrating its arrival on May 10, 2025: a trademark “Boston Three Party.” Convinced that 3-point math would inevitably work in the Boston Celtics’ favor again after shooting 25-of-100 during the series’ first two games, Tatum turns a pick-and-roll into an equation, screening and rescreening to subtract OG Anunoby’s defensive presence. Dipped into his distinguishable form before the New York Knicks can react, Tatum laces a 28-footer, prompting a 19-point lead and eventually, a season-saving statement win. The Celtics’ response to adversity was champion-esque, and Tatum’s role proved invaluable, as he amassed 22 points (on 8-of-20 shooting), nine rebounds, seven assists, two steals, and five trifectas. · May 10, 2025