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[Saba Sports News] Payton Pritchard played a significant role in the Boston Celtics’ hard-fought victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, and he credits Patrick Beverley for some of that success.
Pritchard delivered one of his standout performances of the season, tallying 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists on 7-of-11 shooting, including going 5-of-8 from beyond the arc. His notable stretch of play coincided with Beverley’s taunt toward Celtics big man Luke Kornet, signaling “too small” after hitting a shot over him.
In the post-game interview following Boston’s 122-119 win, Pritchard acknowledged that Beverley’s gesture served as motivation for him to elevate his energy and intensity.
“He was trying to clown one of our teammates, so, definitely took it a little personal,” Pritchard stated.
Despite Beverley defending him for much of the game, Pritchard managed to produce on both ends of the court, energizing the TD Garden crowd and contributing to the Celtics’ victory, especially with Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined due to injury.
Pritchard’s response to Beverley’s friendly trash talk indicates a positive outlook for Boston as they approach the final stretch of the season and the playoffs, particularly with his expanded role following Marcus Smart’s departure.