Boston Celtics Make History as Pritchard and White Both Score 40+ in Win Over Trail Blazers

The Boston Celtics etched their names into the NBA history books on March 5, 2025, when guards Payton Pritchard and Derrick White delivered career-best performances in a 128-118 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. For the first time in franchise history, two Celtics players scored 40 or more points in the same game, a feat that underlines the depth and versatility of Boston’s backcourt.

Celtics' Backcourt Makes History

In a game where Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown were unavailable due to injuries, Pritchard and White took center stage and delivered career-defining performances:

Payton Pritchard: 43 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds while shooting 16-of-25 from the field and 8-of-12 from three-point range.
Derrick White: 41 points, 9 assists, and 6 rebounds, shooting 14-of-22 overall and 5-of-9 from beyond the arc.

Both guards carried the Celtics’ offense against a competitive Trail Blazers team, leading Boston to a fourth consecutive victory and further solidifying their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

How the Celtics Secured the Win

The game remained competitive through the first three quarters, with Anfernee Simons keeping Portland in the fight with a 30-point effort. However, Boston’s offensive execution in the fourth quarter, fueled by White and Pritchard’s scoring, allowed them to pull away.

Key factors in the Celtics’ victory:

Efficient Three-Point Shooting: Boston shot 42% from deep, with Pritchard and White combining for 13 three-pointers.
Ball Movement: The Celtics recorded 30 team assists, showcasing their ability to create high-percentage shots.
Defensive Adjustments: Boston’s defense forced key stops in the final quarter, holding Portland to just 20 points in the last 10 minutes.

Postgame Reactions

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla praised both players for stepping up in a crucial moment:

“What they did tonight was special. To have two guys score over 40 in the same game, in a historic franchise like this, is incredible. They played with confidence, made the right reads, and executed when it mattered most.”

Derrick White reflected on the night’s significance:

“We just trusted each other. Payton got hot early, and I found my rhythm too. It’s a special moment for both of us, and for this team.”

Meanwhile, Payton Pritchard credited the coaching staff for their confidence in his game:

“Coach told us to stay aggressive, and that’s what we did. We knew we had to step up with some of our guys out, and it was a great team win.”

What This Means for the Celtics Moving Forward

Boston’s depth has been a major factor in their strong Eastern Conference standing, and this game highlighted the importance of their supporting cast. With Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown expected to return soon, the Celtics have a deep roster capable of making a serious playoff push.

Key takeaways for Boston:

Pritchard and White can carry the scoring load when needed.
Injury resilience makes them a dangerous playoff team.
Strong three-point shooting remains their biggest weapon.

Final Thoughts

The Boston Celtics' 128-118 victory over Portland was more than just another win; it was a historic performance that showcased the team’s depth and talent. With Payton Pritchard and Derrick White making history as the first Celtics duo to score 40+ points in the same game, Boston has once again proven why they are one of the most formidable teams in the NBABITE this season.

With the playoffs on the horizon, Celtics fans have every reason to be excited about what’s ahead.