Paul Pierce's late game three sparks Celtics over Heat, BOS: 94 MIA: 90


After trailing by 13 in the first half to the Miami Heat, the Boston Celtics rallied back to eventually take a five point lead at the end of the third. It was a seesaw from there on as the Celtics and Heat both traded leads in the fourth. As so often is the case in a close fourth quarter, one play can make the difference. It was Paul Pierce who took the dagger and drove it into Miami's heart - drilling a contested three-pointer with 52 seconds to go to give Boston a four point lead that they would not relinquish, eventually taking Game five 94-90 in Miami and a 3-2 series lead in the Eastern Conference Finals

Pierce shot poorly this game, going 6-for-19 from the field, but ended with 19 points. Kevin Garnett led Celtics scorers with 26 points and 11 rebounds. Rajon Rondo dished out 13 assists. Mickael Pietrus was big off the bench with 13 points.

For the Heat, LeBron James led the way - scoring 30 points and grabbing 13 rebounds. Dwyane Wade added 27 points.

Chris Bosh returned to the game but did not start. He played sparingly but had a big impact when he was on the floor - grabbing six offensive boards.