Boston Celtics vs Orlando Magic Final Score 97-103 — Jul 18, 2026 | Iskor, Box Score at Stats

The game opens with Boston's defensive scheme immediately pressuring Banchero on the wings, forcing early drives and contested looks. Brown's perimeter intensity sets the tone as Tatum establishes mid-range rhythm against Franz Wagner. By the end of Q1, Boston edges ahead 23-22 as Bane's three-point shot isn't falling, but Banchero's 8 first-quarter points keep Orlando in striking distance. In Q2, the Magic shift to pick-and-roll heavy offense, getting Banchero into open spaces against switching defenders; Desmond Bane connects on back-to-back threes to tie the game at 43-43 midway through. Boston responds with Tatum's post-ups against J. Richardson, and Pritchard's ball movement keeps the Celtics ahead 45-43 at halftime. The third quarter becomes the game's pivotal stretch. Orlando comes out aggressively, with Quinones hitting a corner three and Banchero converting a crucial transition dunk to take a brief 56-54 lead. However, Brown's defensive activity and Tatum's rebounding dominance gradually flip momentum back to Boston; by Q3's end, the Celtics lead 70-68. In the fourth quarter, both teams trade buckets in a tightly-contested affair. Bane hits a clutch mid-range jumper with 3:15 remaining to tie at 82-82, but Tatum's putback and a composed free-throw sequence by Boston in the final minute seal a 91-88 Celtics victory, extending their head-to-head edge.