James’ late heroics powers Heat past Celtics

MIAMI – Miami advanced to the NBA playoff semi-finals Wednesday, defeating the Boston Celtics 97-87 with the help of some clutch late baskets from LeBron James and a team-high 34 points by Dwyane Wade.

Miami took advantage of three turnovers and five missed shots in the final five minutes by the Celtics to score the last 16 points of the fourth quarter and win the series four games to one.

Wade finished with 34 points, 10 rebounds and five assists, while James had 33 points and Chris Bosh added 14 points and 11 rebounds.

It marks the first time the Heat are in the NBA semi-finals since they won the league championship five years ago.

James, who put Miami up for good with a three-pointer with 2:10 remaining, and Bosh are in their first season with the Heat. After a slow start the move to have then join Wade in Florida seems to be working.

Ray Allen led the Celtics with 18 points.

Miami will next play the winner of the Chicago and Atlanta series. The Bulls lead that series three games to two.