The Boston Celtics delivered a commanding performance in their second matchup against the Denver Nuggets, securing a 130-104 victory at the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2024, held at Etihad Arena on Yas Island. This victory marked the Celtics’ second consecutive win over the Nuggets during the games, which were presented by ADQ in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi).
In their previous encounter on Friday, the Celtics narrowly edged out the Nuggets 107-103, but the rematch saw a more decisive result. The Celtics took control during a dominant third quarter, outscoring the Nuggets 42-16, effectively sealing their victory.
Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 21 points, while teammate Jayson Tatum contributed 17 points and four assists. Derrick White added 13 points, five rebounds, and six assists. Despite the absence of Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon, Denver’s Nikola Jokic managed to score 20 points and grab seven rebounds for his team.
The event attracted a star-studded audience, including international football stars Ilkay Gundogan and Ismail Mattar, and actors Lucien Laviscount, Nora Fatehi, Lucy Hale, Salma Abu Deif, and Wang Yunhan.
Reflecting on the Celtics’ performance and their preparations for the upcoming season, coach Joe Mazzulla remarked, “We got off to a good start in this training camp, and we approached this trip with the right mindset. We need to continue improving, but yes, we’re one of many teams with a chance at the championship.”
Jayson Tatum echoed these sentiments, noting that playing against a high-caliber team like the Nuggets helped the Celtics grow. “Every season, you look back at what you can improve on. Competing against a great team like Denver helps us learn and get better,” he said.
Both teams spoke highly of their experience in Abu Dhabi. Tatum expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to play in front of international fans, calling it “an incredible trip.” Nuggets guard Julian Strawther also highlighted the significance of the event, adding, “The hospitality Abu Dhabi has shown us has been a blessing, and this experience is something I’ll never forget.”
