NBA: Boston 118, Chicago 90

BOSTON, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Paul Pierce keyed an early surge Friday and Boston coasted in the second half en route to a 118-90 victory over Chicago.

The Celtics became the first team in the NBA to reach three wins this season.

Pierce scored 23 points and Ray Allen had 22 for the Celtics, who shot 58 percent from the field and made 12-of-23 3-point attempts.

Boston outscored Chicago by 11 in the second period to open a 50-35 lead at the break and the Bulls could never make a fight of it in the second half.

Chicago was led by Joakim Noah with 16 points.

It was the first meeting between the Celtics and Bulls since their seven-game, opening-round playoff series last season. Boston won it in seven games before losing to Orlando in the next round.

Chicago won its opener Thursday against San Antonio.