Boston Celtics vs Orlando Magic score final 97-103 — Jul 18, 2026 | Score, box score & 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.