Brunson, Anunoby lead Knicks' stunning 20-Point comeback over Celtics in Game 1 OT Thriller

The New York Knicks pulled off one of the most dramatic upsets of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on Monday night, erasing a 20-point deficit to defeat the Boston Celtics 108-105 in overtime in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby powered the comeback, combining for 58 points and a barrage of clutch three-pointers at TD Garden.

Down 72-52 early in the third quarter, the Knicks rallied behind their backcourt leader Brunson, who scored 29 points and hit five three-pointers. Anunoby matched that total with 29 points of his own, including six triples, punishing Boston’s porous second-half defense.

“It was a great team win,” said Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau. “We fell into a hole and fought our way out — made tough plays down the stretch.”

Celtics Collapse in Second Half as Knicks Catch Fire

The defending champion Celtics, seeded No. 2 in the East, looked dominant early. Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum each scored 23 points, while Al Horford drained a clutch three-pointer to end the third quarter with an 84-75 lead.

But the momentum shifted in the fourth. Rapid-fire threes from Miles McBride and Anunoby, along with a Karl-Anthony Towns layup, pulled the Knicks within one. A powerful 11-point scoring run from Brunson gave New York a 97-91 lead.

Brunson had a chance to win it in regulation, but missed a layup with three seconds left, sending the game into overtime. In the extra period, Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Towns took over — out-hustling and outshooting Boston to clinch the win.

“We left some of their good shooters open,” admitted Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla. “We’ve got to be better with the details.”

NBA Playoffs Game 1 Highlights:

• Final Score: Knicks 108, Celtics 105 (OT)
• Top Scorers: Jalen Brunson & OG Anunoby (29 points each)
• Turning Point: Knicks outscored Celtics 56-33 after trailing by 20
• Next Game: Game 2 – Wednesday, May 8 at TD Garden