Friday, June 13 2008 -- The Boston Celtics had the best road record in the NBA during the regular season, and one of the worst road records during the playoff rounds.

But they were able to do what they needed to do on Thursday, June 12, 2008, when they defeated the Los Angeles Lakers at the Staples Center, 97-91.

Moreover, they did it by coming back from a 24-point deficit in the third quarter!

Boston's "Big Tree" came together at the right time. Paul Pierce scored 20 points, Kevin Garnett had 16 points and 11 rebounds and Ray Allen had 19 points. James Posey also poured in 18 points.

For the Lakers, Kobe Bryant had a poor shooting night, only 6-19 for 17 points on the night.

Lamar Odom put in 19 points on 8-11 shooting, and Pau Gasol was 6-13 for 17 points. Sasha Vujacic, the hero of the last game, was only 1-9.

No team has ever managed to come back from a 3-1 deficit in the Finals.