Derrick White’s buzzer beater in Game 6 drew strong reactions from NBA fans, as the Celtics successfully kept their season alive and forced Game 7 in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Heat.
It seems the only person who wasn’t hung up on the game-winner was Boston’s coach Joe Mazzulla.
Mazzulla spoke to reporters in the aftermath of Game 6’s stunning victory, but he admitted that he wasn’t focusing on White’s shot. When asked what went through his mind after White’s game-winner, Mazzulla issued a very on-character response.
“Nothing. Game 7,” said Mazzulla of his thought process after the miraculous putback.
Joe Mazzulla isn’t in a mood to celebrate 🫡
— Ball Don’t Lie (@Balldontlie) May 28, 2023
Game 7 on the way 🔒
(via @NBCSCeltics)
pic.twitter.com/CcdflelC4Y
Mazzulla apparently isn’t in a celebratory mood just yet, knowing full and well there’s still work to be done. He’s surely pleased that White’s shot kept the Celtics’ season afloat, but in terms of celebration, Mazzulla is saving all of that for after the series.
Mazzulla admitted he had no idea whether or not White’s shot went in before the buzzer when it was initially attempted.
Once the dust settled it and was clear the Celtics had won the game, their head coach immediately began mentally preparing for Game 7.
“There is no guarantee. We just have to understand why we’re still alive and the mindset doesn’t shift. Just can’t relax,” said Mazzulla after the win.
The series finale is set for Monday, at which point the Celtics will look to become the first team ever to complete a successful reverse sweep and win the series after trailing 3–0.
