You’d be hard-pressed to find a bigger moment in sports than game seven of a playoff series.
Everything’s on the line for both teams. One shot, one play, one moment can change everything. The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat are on full display. In these games, coaching staffs turn to their most trusted and experienced players to get them over the hump.
The Boston Celtics are hosting the Philadelphia 76ers in game seven of their playoff series on Saturday night. With superstar forward Jayson Tatum sidelined, head coach Joe Mazzulla shocked everyone with his addition to the starting five: former Iowa superstar center Luka Garza.
Garza started six games for the Celtics in the regular season, appearing in 69 total games. Across his five-year NBA career, he’s only started 11 games, and none in the playoffs. This was a big show of faith from Mazzulla and the coaching staff in the inexperienced Garza.
Garza played the first six minutes of game seven before exiting with two quick personal fouls. With all hands on deck in this game, it wouldn’t be shocking to see Garza make a major impact before the final buzzer sounds. Regardless, Garza starting this game is a great indication of how the NBA views him as a player.
Contact/Follow us @HawkeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Iowa news, notes and opinions. Follow Zach on X: @zach_hiney
This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Luka Garza starts pivotal game seven for the Boston Celtics
Reporting by Zach Hiney, Hawkeyes Wire / Hawkeyes Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
