Celtics and Spurs Both Seize 2-1 Leads with Gutsy Road Wins

Two road wins on the same night swung the momentum in a pair of tightly contested first-round series. The Boston Celtics regained control against Philadelphia with a commanding road victory, while the San Antonio Spurs won in Portland to take a 2-1 series lead despite the cloud hanging over Victor Wembanyama's concussion status.

In Philadelphia, the Celtics responded emphatically after the 76ers' Game 2 upset. Boston's championship experience showed through in the third quarter, when they pulled away with a decisive run that left Philly chasing the game for the rest of the night. The Celtics' defensive intensity, particularly on the perimeter, shut down the 76ers' three-point shooting after VJ Edgecombe's explosive Game 2 debut.

San Antonio's road win was built on defensive grit. With Wembanyama's availability uncertain after his Game 2 concussion, the Spurs' supporting cast stepped up. The defence held Portland's offence in check, and San Antonio's ball movement in the half court was patient and precise — a reflection of the culture Gregg Popovich has built over decades.

Both series now hinge on Game 4. If the Celtics and Spurs can win again on the road, they will have the chance to close out at home in Game 5. For Philadelphia and Portland, Game 4 is effectively a must-win — going down 3-1 against these opponents would be a mountain too steep to climb.

Kenyan NBA fans can follow both series on streaming platforms through the early hours of East African time. GreenBet's partner bookmakers offer competitive spreads and series prices — the Celtics and Spurs are both strong at around -250 to advance, but individual game spreads in hostile road environments offer more nuanced betting opportunities.