With the looming contest between the Boston Celtics and the Detroit Pistons hovering like a mid-summer storm cloud, I can’t help but wonder how this will all end. But one thing is for sure, Celtics forward Paul Pierce will forever be remembered for his efforts in Game 7 against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The reality of it though is that he’ll have to do it again and again to bring the Pistons to their knees.

Pierce brought down the house Sunday, May 18 against LeBron James and the Cavs. It was an epic battle similar to that of Bird against Wilkins. It was a 41-point highlight real of hustle, grit and pure determination. Something that the 30-year-old All-Star will have to do eight more times, because that’s how many wins the C’s need in order to hoist No. 17 to the rafters.

Over his career, he has been lambasted by his critics. Entering Game 7, he was on the verge of lifelong turmoil and near exile in this town if he threw up another brick of a game. But like so many other superstar athletes in this town, he stepped up, took his bow and played like the gods of Celtics past. The pleasure I took in watching Game 7 was immense, the smile on my face was electric and the gratitude I have for Pierce is unreal. From myself and the fans of Boston, thank you. It’s time to dismantle the Pistons like an old Chevrolet behind the shed, and if he plays like he did on Sunday, it will be no problem at all.

In 31 career games against the Pistons, Pierce has averaged 24.5 points per game with 6.7 rebounds per game and 4.0 assists per contest. He sports a lifetime 47.8 field goal percentage against them and is 41 percent from beyond the arc.

His history against the car parts is good, so hopefully Paul will build on the foundation he constructed in Game 7 and dominate. His leadership on this team needs to shine through, because without him, the Celtics are nearly nothing.

One Response to “The Heart of a Champion”

1. Kevin Says:
   May 21st, 2008 at 8:52 am

   Paul Pierce has again demonstrated in these playoffs why he is a superstar. He’s been in these battles before but has never had the supporting cast that he has now. Kevin Garnet is also a superstar and with the combination of play between these two guys, surely greatness awaits. I was so proud to see Paul Pierce really step up and show the world why he is a true force in the NBA to be reckoned with. No matter what happens, he will go down as one of the all time Celtics greats to ever play the game of basketball. GO GREEN!

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