The Detroit Pistons proved that a visiting team can win in Boston. Now they can reach the NBA finals without having to do it again. Richard Hamilton nailed 25 points, and the Pistons beat the Celtics 103-97 last night, tying the Eastern Conference finals at one game apiece and seizing the home-court advantage that has meant everything to the Celtics.
Chauncey Billups had 19 points and seven assists for the Pistons, who host Game 3 tomorrow. "The atmosphere's going to be crazy," Hamilton said. "We're geeked about getting back to our home court.” Paul Pierce scored 26 points for the Celtics, who had won 15 straight at home and 9-0 in the playoffs. Kevin Garnett added 24 points and 13 rebounds for Boston. (More 2008 NBA playoffs stories.)