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BOSTON (AP)— Throughout their tenure with the Boston Celtics, Payton Pritchard and Derrick White have primarily served as essential role players, stepping up to fill in critical moments.
However, as starters Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, and Kristaps Porzingis rested on Wednesday night against the Portland Trail Blazers, both players elevated their performances to unprecedented heights.
Pritchard achieved a personal best with 43 points, sinking a record 10 three-pointers to guide the undermanned Celtics to a 128-118 victory over the Trail Blazers.
White also set career highs, contributing 41 points and nailing nine three-pointers, making them the first pair of Celtics teammates to each score 40+ points in a single game. They also made history as the first duo in the NBA to each hit nine or more three-pointers in the same game.
Additionally, Pritchard recorded 10 rebounds, making him the inaugural player in NBA history to post at least 40 points, 10 three-pointers, and 10 rebounds in a standard game, with Damian Lillard and James Harden having achieved this only in overtime.
“The consistent work I put in has really built my confidence,” Pritchard stated. “Having my teammates and coaches believe in me has allowed me to shine on nights like tonight. … It all culminates in performances like this.”
The postgame celebration was wild 🤣 pic.twitter.com/hrE8sEDDfs
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) March 6, 2025
Even more gratifying for Pritchard, a native of Oregon, was doing it against the team he admired as a child.
“Playing against the Blazers is always a thrill,” Pritchard remarked.
White credited his momentum to hitting three consecutive three-pointers in the second quarter.
“I’m thankful for my teammates who kept setting me up, and I was able to stay in rhythm,” he noted.
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla reflected on the impressive night for Pritchard and White, emphasizing their dedication to the game.
“They were outstanding,” Mazzulla commented. “Their performance speaks volumes about their character. … We’re fortunate to have them, and it was incredibly exciting to witness their success.”
Pritchard also notched five assists, making him the sole player among the three (Lillard, Harden) to record at least 40 points, 10+ rebounds, 10+ three-pointers, and five or more assists while coming off the bench.
In a locker room clip shared by the Celtics, the team celebrated White’s achievements with a water shower, while Pritchard remained dry during the footage. He explained that he had already been soaked earlier.
“They got me on the court during an interview,” Pritchard explained. “I had already been doused with water. It was chilly. We wanted to make sure D-White got celebrated, too, since he had a fantastic game.”
