NBA Finals game by game
Game 1: Celtics 98, Lakers 88
Comeback kids
In their first Finals game since 1987, the Celtics used a smothering defense in the second half to defeat the Lakers, 98-88, in Game 1 at the Garden. Game photos | Scene photos
- Bob Ryan Remember, it's only one
- Dan Shaughnessy Strolling down Memory Lane
Game 2: Celtics 108, Lakers 102
Survivor: Boston
The Celtics nearly blew a 24-point lead in the fourth quarter before defeating the Lakers, 108-102, in Game 2 of the NBA Finals at TD Banknorth Garden. Game photos | Scene photos
- Bob Ryan 'X' marks the spot for Powe
- Dan Shaughnessy Two down, two to go
Game 3: Lakers 87, Celtics 81
Coast trip
The Celtics lost Game 3, 87-81, to the Lakers before a celebrity-laden crowd at Staples Center, and their lead in the Finals was cut to one game. Game photos | Scene photos
- Bob Ryan Out West, their game went south
- Dan Shaughnessy Wrong way in LA
Game 4: Celtics 97, Lakers 91
Comeback story
The Celtics overcame a 24-point deficit en route to a stunning 97-91 victory over the Lakers in Game 4 at Staples Center. Game photos | Scene photos | Photos of the comeback
- Bob Ryan Seeing this was believing
- Dan Shaughnessy Roaring back
Game 5: Lakers 103, Celtics 98
LA Dodgers
Despite a 38-point effort from Paul Pierce, the Celtics lost, 103-98, to the Lakers in Game 5 . Boston still holds a one-game lead in the series. Game photos | Scene photos
- Bob Ryan It was there for the taking
- Dan Shaughnessy No party on the coast
Game 6: Celtics 131, Lakers 92
Ring it up!
The Celtics finally claimed their 17th NBA title by defeating the Lakers, 131-92, in Game 6 of the NBA Finals. Game photos | Postgame celebration | Scene photos | Fan celebration
- Bob Ryan Unbelievable? No, believable
- Dan Shaughnessy Back on top