Paul Pierce led the Boston Celtics to a season-opening win, 90-85, over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night with 27 points.

The Celtics, who raised their 17th championship banner into the rafters of T.D. Banknorth Garden and received their rings prior to the game, used a strong third quarter to overcome a seven-point halftime deficit.

Rajon Rondo added 14 points, 5 rebound,s and 5 assists in the victory while Leon Powe tallied 13 points off the bench.

Boston shot 44% from the field but went just 3-for-13 from three-point land. Cleveland shot 42% and struggled from downtown as well, hitting just three of their seventeen attempts.

LeBron James led the Cavs with 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists while Anderson Varejao contributed 9 points and 9 rebounds in a reserve role.

Mo Williams, making his Cleveland debut, struggled slightly. He posted 12 points, 4 assists, and five fouls in the loss, going 4-for-11 from the field.

The Cavs turned the ball over four more times than the defending-champion Celtics.

Via Andrew Perna/RealGM

Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers

Read the Full Story Discuss Send Feedback Buy Tickets