The Boston Celtics extended their winning streak with a gritty victory over the Detroit Pistons on Saturday night, achieving a notable milestone in NBA history.
The Celtics got off to a blazing start, racking up 42 points in the first quarter, marking their third consecutive game with over 30 points in the opening period. This remarkable scoring performance has secured them a place in the NBA record books for first quarter scoring.
Statistician Dick Lipe noted that the Celtics have recorded the highest total of first quarter points over the first three games in NBA history, amassing 118 points. They are averaging 39.3 points during this early stretch of the season.
This achievement surpasses the 1991-92 Golden State Warriors, who scored 114 points, and the 2013-14 Minnesota Timberwolves, with 112 points, for the most first quarter points in the first three games of a season.
However, the Celtics’ scoring momentum did not carry them through the entire game. They squandered a 23-point lead against the Pistons but managed to come back for a 124-118 victory. The team struggled in the second half, shooting only 35.9 percent and scoring just 51 points, which was slightly above their first quarter total.
Currently, the Celtics boast the highest scoring efficiency in the league and remain one of three undefeated teams in the Eastern Conference. They will face another challenge on Monday when the Milwaukee Bucks visit TD Garden.