The Atlanta Hawks went into Game 5, tied at two games, trying to regain home court advantage. In the first quarter neither team could really get their offenses going and really struggled. Atlanta shot 24% from the floor and Boston 33%, with Boston leading 20-15 at the end of the quarter.
The second quarter Atlanta got back on track and took their first lead with 3:37 left in the quarter. Kent Bazemore got the crowd back into the game after hitting three consecutive three pointers. Al Horford continued to struggle starting 0-8 in the first half and finishing 2-11 in field goals made. Atlanta would go on and finish the quarter strong with a ten point lead.
The third quarter is where the magic happened. The Hawks set a franchise record scoring 42 points in that quarter after going on a seventeen to one point run. The Celtics had no response to the constant pressure and fast pace offense the Hawks put together.
In the fourth quarter after building a 29 point lead Coach Bud took out his starters and cleared his bench. Atlanta finished the game with a Final score of 110 to 83.
Boston Celtics point guard Isaiah Thomas left the game with a mild ankle sprain. This will be something to monitor closely to see if he will be available for the next contest. Game 6 is this Thursday at 8pm in Boston, where Atlanta is yet to win a playoff match. Game 7, if needed, would be on Saturday at Phillips arena with time TBA.
-Es
Photo: Kent Foster