PHILADELPHIA, May 23 (UPI) -- Jrue Holiday had 20 points Wednesday and helped a stingy Philadelphia defensive effort in an 82-75 win over Boston that stretched their series to the limit.
The 76ers survived despite scoring only 11 points in the second quarter and, for the second time in the Eastern Conference semifinals, won a game with 82 points.
Philadelphia evened the series at 3-3, forcing a deciding game Saturday in Boston. The Celtics shot a mere 33 percent from the field and their starters went 24-of-68. The 76ers forced 17 turnovers.
After rallying from a three-point deficit to take the lead in the third period, the 76ers took control with a seven-point run during a 3-minute span early in the fourth quarter. That gave Philadelphia a 70-59 advantage and the 76ers held on down the stretch.
Boston closed within five in the final minute, but Holiday's two free throws with 31 seconds left boosted the lead back to seven and wrapped up the victory.
Elton Brand added 13 points and 10 rebounds for Philadelphia while Andre Iguodala and Evan Turner had 12 points each.
Philadelphia kept alive its hopes for what would be its first Eastern Conference title in 11 years. The 76ers have not won the NBA crown since 1983.
Paul Pierce led Boston with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Kevin Garnett had 24 points and 11 boards.
