Sixers' Brown remains optimistic despite 3-0 deficit to Celtics
The Philadelphia 76ers now find themselves facing seemingly insurmountable odds, as no team in NBA history has ever overcome a 3-0 series deficit in 129 postseason tries.
Head coach Brett Brown believes his squad can be the one in 129-1, though.
"Just think about that number, and the number to me (0) happens more out of spirit than talent. Like there's a breaking point we all have, and I believe that if we can maintain our spirit, why couldn't we be the one? And I mean that," said Brown following his team's 101-98 overtime loss to the Boston Celtics in Game 3 on Saturday.
"That's my goal with us, is to fight, to keep our mind believing some of what I just said, I hope all. And let their bodies recover and give us a chance."
Philadelphia was up by as many as five points in overtime Saturday after a jumper by guard Marco Belinelli at the end of regulation forced the extra period. Careless turnovers, defensive breakdowns, and some terrific play-calling by Brad Stevens ultimately led to their demise, though, with Celtics big man Al Horford sealing the win with a late bucket and a pair of free throws.
Related - Watch: Horford wins Game 3 with go-ahead layup, game-sealing steal
Game 4 will take place on Monday night at the Wells Fargo Center, as Boston looks to get back to the Eastern Conference finals for the second year in a row.