MIAMI — Boston achieved something unprecedented in their franchise’s long and celebrated history during Wednesday night’s matchup against Miami.
The Celtics exploded for 53 points during the game’s first 12 minutes, establishing a new team record for most points scored in an opening quarter against the Heat.
This offensive explosion ranks as the second-highest first-quarter point total in NBA regular season history. Only Golden State’s 55-point opening frame against Portland on April 9, 2023, surpassed it, while Miami previously matched the 53-point mark in their November 7 contest versus Charlotte.
The performance marked Boston’s second-highest scoring quarter overall in team history. The Celtics previously scored 54 points during a fourth quarter against San Diego on February 25, 1970. For Miami, it represented the most points they’ve ever surrendered in any single quarter, eclipsing the 50 points they allowed during a fourth quarter at Seattle on January 5, 1990.
Boston connected on 11 three-point shots during the opening frame, with Sam Hauser delivering a perfect 5-for-5 performance from long range while playing every minute of the quarter. Jaylen Brown contributed 20 points individually during the period — marking his ninth career 20-point quarter including postseason play — while Hauser added 17 points.
The Celtics held a commanding 53-33 advantage after the first quarter, having shot an impressive 20-for-28 from the floor and 11-for-15 from three-point territory.
