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As a newcomer on the reigning NBA champions, Baylor Scheierman understands his chances to stand out beyond practice are limited.
On Tuesday night, Scheierman seized his moment, achieving a career-high 20 points in a determined performance that had his Boston Celtics coaches, teammates, and fans applauding him.
Coach Joe Mazzulla highlighted that the most noteworthy aspect wasn’t just the personal records for points and made 3-pointers, but the poise Scheierman demonstrated as the Celtics triumphed while resting their key players.
“While the 3-pointers are a nice bonus, the real standout was his defensive tenacity, offensive rebounding, and overall toughness,” Mazzulla remarked after Scheierman’s stellar showing contributed to Boston’s 104-96 victory over the Brooklyn Nets.
With the Celtics sidelining Jayson Tatum (right knee) and Jaylen Brown (right knee, back) against a struggling Nets team, Scheierman saw increased playing time.
Mazzulla experimented with his lineups and was pleased with the performance of the 24-year-old from Creighton, who eagerly dove for loose balls and fought for offensive rebounds.
What coach doesn’t appreciate that?
“Regardless of who takes the court, we have expectations and trust that they’ll do what’s necessary for victory,” Mazzulla stated.
Wait for it…
GOT ‘EM AGAIN 🤣pic.twitter.com/OzoA7xeCG2
— Boston Celtics (@celtics)March 19, 2025
A pivotal moment occurred at the end of the third quarter when Scheierman sank a buzzer-beating 3-pointer, giving the Celtics a narrow 71-70 edge. In the fourth quarter, he knocked down three more of his six career-high 3-pointers while scoring 13 of his total 20 points.
“It’s an incredible experience. Hitting that buzzer-beater with the crowd erupting was one of the top three atmospheres I’ve ever been part of,” Scheierman shared, noting he has spent much of the season with the Maine affiliate in the development league and was participating in only his 19th NBA game.
“When the game slows down and I can just play freely, it’s a lot of fun,” Scheierman added.
With Tatum and Brown set to return as Boston aims for back-to-back championships and a 19th NBA title, the coaching staff recognizes that there’s a young reserve eager to step up and inject energy if needed.
“He possesses a high level of toughness and a solid basketball IQ. What’s essential for him is consistency and patience,” Mazzulla explained. “You can’t let discouragement set in. Your identity isn’t shaped by a day or two; it’s about the process and seizing those small opportunities.”
