Tatum’s Buzzer-Beater Seals Celtics’ Thrilling Overtime Triumph Over Nets

Key Takeaways:

• Jayson Tatum scored 40 points and delivered a 17-foot jumper at the buzzer in overtime on Tuesday night, giving Boston a 125-124 victory over the Brooklyn Nets
• Michael Porter Jr. recorded 27 points and 12 rebounds for Brooklyn, who remain winless at 0-4 after the defeat
• Nets rookie Mikel Brown Jr. hit a tying 3-pointer with 0.2 seconds left in regulation but missed a crucial layup with 2.3 seconds remaining in overtime

Overtime Drama Decided by Tatum’s Heroics

Jayson Tatum concluded an outstanding performance by hitting a 17-foot jump shot at the buzzer in overtime, securing the Boston Celtics’ 125-124 win against the Brooklyn Nets at TD Garden on Tuesday night. Tatum’s contribution was pivotal, as he amassed 40 points, converting 10 of 20 field goals and 18 of 22 free throws, delivering Boston’s third consecutive victory.

This is a work of art https://t.co/mQoVlNDs06

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) October 28, 2026

Supporting Cast and Statistical Leaders

Paul George contributed 20 points and Derrick White added 16 to bolster the Celtics’ offence. Since squandering a 22-point lead against Detroit in their season opener, Boston have remained unbeaten.

For Brooklyn, Michael Porter Jr. led the way with 27 points and 12 rebounds, while Julius Randle scored 24. Rookie Mikel Brown Jr., the sixth overall pick in the NBA draft from Louisville, finished with 17 points. Brown hit a critical 3-pointer with only 0.2 seconds left in regulation to force overtime, but in the extra period, he missed a layup with 2.3 seconds left, opening the door for Tatum’s game-winner.

Crucial Moments and Game Flow

The Celtics’ Mitchell Robinson missed both free throws with 3 seconds remaining in regulation, enabling the Nets to attempt a last-gasp equaliser. Robinson, a career 50.7% free-throw shooter, managed only 1 of 4 from the stripe and is now 2 of 8 this season.

With 33.7 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter, Derrick White broke free for a dunk following a pass from Tatum, and converted the ensuing free throw for a 114-111 Boston lead. The biggest margin for either side was eight points. The Nets led 109-104 after a Julius Randle basket with 2:57 to play before the Celtics surged back.

Boston struggled from beyond the arc in the opening half, making just 2 of 16 attempts, yet trailed by only 61-56 at the interval. Their long-range shooting improved after the break, as they hit 9 of 22 from deep in the second half.

Looking Ahead

The Brooklyn Nets will host the Detroit Pistons on Friday night, while the Boston Celtics are set to welcome the Chicago Bulls the same evening.