OG Anunoby shot at the buzzer that won Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs for Toronto Raptors. Photo Credit: @NBA

If there was a game to buttress why they are the defending Champions, the third semifinal game in the Eastern Conference against Boston Celtics underlined why Toronto Raptors have the NBA crown, snatching victory at the throes of defeat.

At the brink of going down 3-0 to Celtics in the playoffs, Ogugua OG Anunoby’s 3pt shot at the buzzer was the saving grace for Raptors who edged at the game by a point to a secure a victory that put the series at 2-1.

Coming into the game, it was make or mar for Raptors and with less than 2s left on the clock, they turned it around to beat Celtics 104-103 to keep their title defence hopes alive.

Celtics looked like they were headed for another victory, going into half-time with a 10pt lead. However, Raptors played better in the next two quarters, particularly in the 3rd when they levelled the game and even led Boston at some point by three points.

The two teams traded baskets in the 4th quarter and it was tighter, but Raptors blew a 4pt lead that allowed Celtics a chance to close out the game with a 2pt lead in less than a second. That was all Anunoby needed to claw his team back from defeat to a win.

Kyle Lowry led for Raptors with a game-high 31pts but even he would agree that Anunoby’s double-double was the game changer for them, with the British-born Nigerian player making 12pts and 10reb (team-high).

Anunoby’s impressive outing saw him make three steals in the game, two blocks and an assist. His outside shooting was very impressive, recording a 60% conversion rate in the five attempts he had.

Cameroon’s Pascal Siakam who only had two points at half-time ended up making 16pts, 7reb and 2ast in the game. Meanwhile, Celtics’ Semi Ojeleye who was on the court for just 6mins: 20 made 3pts.

This victory will give Raptors the boost going into the fourth game on Saturday hoping they can level the series as they aim to successfully defend their title.

 

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Christopher Maduewesi
Athletics coverage was a discovery, having to move away from regularly writing about Football. Although it was initially daunting, but now being an authority in it makes the past effort worthwhile. From travelling on the same international flight with Nigerian athletes, to knowing you could easily interview: World Record holder Tobi Amusan, then Ese Brume, I have cut my teeth in this beat earning the trust of Athletics sources. Formerly the Content Manager-Sports at Ringier media Nigeria, Chris is a Senior Sports writer, Photographer & Community manager at Making of Champions.

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