The Boston Celtics sixteen game winning streak is over thanks to a solid all around effort from the Miami HEAT and some late clutch baskets from Dion Waiters. The HEAT controlled the game throughout pushing their lead to as many as eighteen points, and led by sixteen going into the fourth quarter.
But the Celtics fought back hard, closing the deficit to 1 point with three minutes remaining in the game. For a moment, it looked like the HEAT were going to allow another comeback on their watch, but Dion “Philly Cheese” Waiters was not having it.
Waiters hit a 3 that touched every part of the rim and backboard that put the HEAT up by four points late in the contest. He followed with another step back 3, and a dunk that put the game away for good for Miami. Waiters finished with 26 points and 6 assists to lead the HEAT to victory.
After the game coach Spoelstra praised his confidence, decision making, and shot making ability as the some of the keys to victory.
In the locker room, Waiters was asked if it was his time once the score got close and he responded with some “Philly Cheese” swag.
His performance against the Celtics in the 4th quarter was reminiscent of the late 3 he hit against the Warriors last season. Waiters and the HEAT must sustain this type of effort, intensity, and confidence moving forward, if there are to duplicate their second half surge from last year. The HEAT will need their “Philly Cheese” closer to perform like this every night in order for this season to become special.