James Harden hit the go-ahead 3-pointer with 18 seconds left in overtime and scored 42 points to help the 76ers stave off a wild Boston Celtics comeback in a 116-115 victory on Sunday in Philadelphia that evened their playoff series at 2-2.
The Celtics rallied from 15 points down with 2 minutes left in the third quarter in hopes of seizing control of the series. The Sixers were on the brink of defeat numerous times over the final 17 minutes, none more than when Joel Embiid connected with Smart on a driving, one-handed bank shot with 1:49 left but was whistled for an offensive foul.
The play was reviewed and the call stood. Boston kept its 112-111 lead with 1:49 left in OT. Embiid kept his composure and eventually got to the line to sink the go-ahead free throws with 59 seconds left and the season in the balance.
JAMES HARDEN GAME WINNER. <a href="https://t.co/FiK59uw8VI">pic.twitter.com/FiK59uw8VI</a> Embiid had 34 points and 13 rebounds.