Former Spartan gives clutch performance in Game 3, lifts Celtics to 3-0 Finals lead
Okay, I am getting pretty desperate for things to write about. But this one feels good. Last night, one of our favorite former Spartans, one who definitely has a place in the pantheon of great Izzo success stories, got his first action of the NBA Finals and performed like he belonged. Getting minutes due to Kristaps Porzingis’ injury, Xavier Tillman helped turn the tide of the game in the Celtics’ favor.
In 11 minutes of play, Tillman snagged four rebounds and blocked a pair of Mavs’ shots, including one on a driving Luka Doncic. But his biggest play was splashing in a corner three on a kickout from his teammate, Jaylen Brown. It was Tillman’s only shot of the game, which means he is shooting 100% in these Finals. Here’s a look at the play.
A lot of what Xavier did in last night’s game does not show up in the box score. Watching last night, I thought to myself that he is filling a Mady Sissoko/Carson Cooper role for these Celtics in that he does not get many offensive touches and mainly contributes high screens on offense. And he definitely had several of those last night including one where he was called for an offensive foul (it was the right call) for moving; he did get to drive his shoulder into Kyrie Irving’s jaw and knock him down, for what that is worth. Another big play he had was when he chased down an offensive rebound before it went out of bounds and, while in the air, tossed the ball to the top of the key to Jayson Tatum to reset the shot clock. He hustles, plays smart, and really digs down on defense. His performance even earned him a post-game on-court interview.
From one Green & White uniform to another, Tillman continues to make Spartan Nation proud. And if it wasn’t for stupid Coronavirus, he would have an NCAA National Championship to add to his impending NBA Title.