Basketball: Celtics survive late Raptors flurry to clinch Eastern Final berth

The Boston Celtics have ended the reign of the Toronto Raptors as defending NBA champions, outlasting a late flurry to clinch their place in the Eastern Conference finals. Friday's Game 7 saw the lead exchange 11 times, but the Celtics extended their slender third quarter advantage going on a 7-0 run to begin the final period. From there mishaps cost the Raptors dearly, turning the ball over six times in the fourth quarter alone, while playmaker Kyle Lowry fouled out with 35 seconds remaining in the game. Toronto sharpshooter Fred VanVleet was off the mark with a three that could have tied the game with 12 seconds remaining, as the Celtics held out to triumph 92-87 at the final buzzer. Jayson Tatum topscored with 29 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists, backed by 21 from Jaylen Brown, 16 from Marcus Smart and 14 from Kemba Walker. Boston tip off against Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference finals on Tuesday.