Tonight, Wednesday, March 26, 2025, promises an electrifying matchup in the NBA regular season as the Phoenix Suns host the Boston Celtics at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Scheduled for 11 p.m. Brasília time (8 p.m. local time), the game pits two teams in contrasting phases but equally driven. The Suns, riding a four-game winning streak, aim to solidify their spot in the Western Conference play-in race. Meanwhile, the Celtics, atop the Eastern Conference with six consecutive victories, arrive as favorites despite playing on the road. With stars like Kevin Durant and Jayson Tatum on the court, the clash is set to deliver intensity and excitement, captivating basketball fans worldwide. Live coverage will be available across multiple platforms, ensuring no one misses the key moments of this interconference battle.
The historical rivalry between these teams adds an extra layer of intrigue. Since their first meeting in 1968, the Suns and Celtics have faced off 137 times, with Boston holding a 77-60 edge. However, in Phoenix, the Suns dominate with 36 wins in 68 home games. The Footprint Center, renowned for its passionate crowd, could tip the scales for the hosts. With a capacity of 18,422, the arena is expected to be packed, as ticket demand has soared, with courtside seats nearly sold out. Weather forecasts predict a pleasant evening in Phoenix, with temperatures between 64°F and 72°F and clear skies—perfect conditions for fans and players alike.
While the Suns lean on their recent surge, the Celtics bank on the consistency that has made them Eastern Conference leaders. Tonight’s game marks their first encounter of the 2024/25 season and could serve as a playoff preview. The clash of conferences, combined with elite talent on both sides, makes this one of the most anticipated games of the week. Though the officiating crew hasn’t been officially announced, the NBA typically assigns seasoned referees to high-profile matchups like this to manage the expected intensity.
How to catch Suns vs. Celtics live
Basketball fans in Brazil have several options to watch the Suns take on the Celtics in real time. ESPN 2 will broadcast the game on cable TV, featuring Portuguese narration and commentary, starting at 11 p.m. Brasília time. For streaming enthusiasts, the NBA League Pass provides full coverage, including live stats and multiple camera angles. Disney+ is another option, offering pre- and post-game analysis alongside the live feed. Coverage is expected to begin about 30 minutes before tip-off, setting the stage for the night’s action.
Sports bars and restaurants in cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are likely to screen the game, creating a lively atmosphere for fans. For those unable to watch live, sports websites and platforms like X will offer real-time updates, highlights, and detailed stats. The NBA League Pass also provides full replays, a convenient choice for anyone missing the scheduled time.
Probable lineups for the big showdown
The Phoenix Suns are expected to field a lineup reflecting their current offensive momentum. Based on their last game, a 127-121 win over the Chicago Bulls on March 19, coach Mike Budenholzer is likely to start Tyus Jones at point guard, Bradley Beal and Devin Booker on the wings, Kevin Durant at power forward, and Jusuf Nurkic at center. Durant, averaging 27.1 points per game this season, anchors the attack, while Booker, who combined for 67 points with Durant against the Bulls, bolsters the scoring trio. Nurkic adds rebounding strength, averaging around 10 boards per game, crucial against Boston’s defense.
The Boston Celtics, led by Joe Mazzulla, should stick with the lineup from their 119-107 victory over the Sacramento Kings on March 23. The probable starters are Derrick White and Jrue Holiday at guard, Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum on the wings, and Al Horford at center. Tatum, questionable due to an ankle injury, remains the focal point with over 30 points per game. If he sits out, Payton Pritchard, who scored 22 against the Kings, could see extended minutes. Boston’s depth shines on the road, where they boast a league-best 29-7 record.
Historical matchup: Suns vs. Celtics
The Suns-Celtics rivalry is steeped in NBA history. Across 137 games, Boston leads with 77 wins to Phoenix’s 60. At the Footprint Center and its predecessors, however, the Suns hold a 36-32 advantage in 68 home games. Recent meetings have been tight, with the Celtics winning four of the last five, including a 120-119 thriller in January, driven by Tatum’s 38-point performance.
The Suns’ biggest home win over Boston came in 2009, a 143-83 rout, while the Celtics’ largest road triumph was a 36-point margin in 1978 (121-85). These extremes highlight the matchup’s potential for both blowouts and nail-biters, depending on the teams’ form.
Last five games for each team
A look at recent performances sets the stage for tonight. The Phoenix Suns are on a roll with four straight wins:
- Suns 127-121 Bulls (March 19)
- Suns 108-106 Bucks (March 17)
- Suns 123-112 Cavaliers (March 11)
- Suns 118-115 Kings (March 10)
The Boston Celtics, meanwhile, ride a six-game streak:
- Celtics 119-107 Kings (March 23)
- Celtics 123-105 76ers (March 5)
- Celtics 114-108 Jazz (March 3)
- Celtics 122-100 Bulls (March 1)
- Celtics 120-119 Pelicans (January 12)
Both teams showcase potent offenses and tightening defenses, setting up a high-octane clash.
Stars in the spotlight: Durant and Tatum
Kevin Durant headlines the Suns’ effort. Fresh off a 35-point outing against the Memphis Grizzlies, the forward’s clutch scoring is unmatched. Alongside him, Devin Booker averages 25 points against Boston in his career, posing a constant threat. For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum’s MVP-caliber play—30+ points per game and 11 rebounds in his last Suns matchup—drives the team, despite his injury concern. Jaylen Brown and Jrue Holiday could step up if Tatum’s minutes are limited.
The paint battle pits Jusuf Nurkic against Al Horford, two veterans blending experience and physicality. Nurkic’s rebounding will test Horford’s versatility, potentially shaping the game’s tempo.
Tickets and vibe at Footprint Center
Anticipation is sky-high in Phoenix, with tickets nearly gone. Available through the Suns’ official site, prices range from $50 to $300, with prime seats already snapped up. The Footprint Center, opened in 1992 and recently renovated, amplifies crowd noise, creating a daunting atmosphere for visitors. Nearby bars and eateries are gearing up to host fans, turning the night into a citywide event.
The Suns’ fanbase, one of the NBA’s most fervent, thrives in East vs. West matchups. Expect a sea of purple and orange flags, boosting Mike Budenholzer’s squad from the opening tip.
Fun facts about the matchup
Here are some tidbits that elevate the game’s allure:
- The Suns ousted the Celtics in the 1976 Western semifinals, winning 4-2 in a classic series.
- Jayson Tatum became Boston’s youngest player to reach 10,000 points at age 25.
- Kevin Durant averages 27.5 points across 35 career games against the Celtics.
- Boston’s biggest road win over Phoenix was 117-87 in 2016.
- The Footprint Center has hosted 68 Suns-Celtics games, with 32 visitor wins.
These nuggets blend legacy and star power into tonight’s narrative.
Predictions and game outlook
Analysts slightly favor the Celtics, citing their stellar road record and season-long dominance. Betnacional odds list Boston at 1.55 and Phoenix at 2.42, reflecting confidence in the East leaders. Yet, the Suns’ hot streak, fueled by Durant and Booker, hints at a closer contest. Tatum’s three-point accuracy (over 40% this season) will challenge Phoenix’s defense, while the Suns’ transition speed could exploit Boston’s secondary players.
The game’s total points are projected around 220, given both teams’ offensive firepower. Home crowd energy might just give Phoenix an edge in key moments.
Upcoming schedule for both teams
Post-game, the Suns and Celtics face busy slates in the season’s final stretch. All times are Brasília:
- Phoenix Suns:
- March 28 vs. Denver Nuggets (away, 10 p.m.)
- March 30 vs. Los Angeles Clippers (home, 11 p.m.)
- April 1 vs. Sacramento Kings (away, 9 p.m.)
- Boston Celtics:
- March 28 vs. Denver Nuggets (home, 8:30 p.m.)
- March 30 vs. Miami Heat (away, 8 p.m.)
- April 1 vs. Charlotte Hornets (home, 7 p.m.)
These games will shape their playoff seeding.
Weather forecast and event impact
Phoenix’s weather tonight is ideal for basketball. Expect 64°F to 72°F with clear skies and no rain, easing fan travel to the Footprint Center. The mild conditions should keep the focus on the court, where the crowd’s heat will take over. For players, the stable climate supports peak performance in a high-stakes game.
Coaches in the spotlight: Budenholzer vs. Mazzulla
Mike Budenholzer steers the Suns with a fast-paced, long-range attack. In his second year with Phoenix, he’s fine-tuning the roster around Durant and Booker while shoring up defense. His 2021 NBA title with the Bucks adds gravitas to big games like this.
Joe Mazzulla’s aggressive defense and efficient offense have made the Celtics a juggernaut. In his third season, the 2024 NBA champ excels at managing stars like Tatum and Brown. His road prowess faces a stern test against Phoenix’s firepower.

Tonight, Wednesday, March 26, 2025, promises an electrifying matchup in the NBA regular season as the Phoenix Suns host the Boston Celtics at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Scheduled for 11 p.m. Brasília time (8 p.m. local time), the game pits two teams in contrasting phases but equally driven. The Suns, riding a four-game winning streak, aim to solidify their spot in the Western Conference play-in race. Meanwhile, the Celtics, atop the Eastern Conference with six consecutive victories, arrive as favorites despite playing on the road. With stars like Kevin Durant and Jayson Tatum on the court, the clash is set to deliver intensity and excitement, captivating basketball fans worldwide. Live coverage will be available across multiple platforms, ensuring no one misses the key moments of this interconference battle.
The historical rivalry between these teams adds an extra layer of intrigue. Since their first meeting in 1968, the Suns and Celtics have faced off 137 times, with Boston holding a 77-60 edge. However, in Phoenix, the Suns dominate with 36 wins in 68 home games. The Footprint Center, renowned for its passionate crowd, could tip the scales for the hosts. With a capacity of 18,422, the arena is expected to be packed, as ticket demand has soared, with courtside seats nearly sold out. Weather forecasts predict a pleasant evening in Phoenix, with temperatures between 64°F and 72°F and clear skies—perfect conditions for fans and players alike.
While the Suns lean on their recent surge, the Celtics bank on the consistency that has made them Eastern Conference leaders. Tonight’s game marks their first encounter of the 2024/25 season and could serve as a playoff preview. The clash of conferences, combined with elite talent on both sides, makes this one of the most anticipated games of the week. Though the officiating crew hasn’t been officially announced, the NBA typically assigns seasoned referees to high-profile matchups like this to manage the expected intensity.
How to catch Suns vs. Celtics live
Basketball fans in Brazil have several options to watch the Suns take on the Celtics in real time. ESPN 2 will broadcast the game on cable TV, featuring Portuguese narration and commentary, starting at 11 p.m. Brasília time. For streaming enthusiasts, the NBA League Pass provides full coverage, including live stats and multiple camera angles. Disney+ is another option, offering pre- and post-game analysis alongside the live feed. Coverage is expected to begin about 30 minutes before tip-off, setting the stage for the night’s action.
Sports bars and restaurants in cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro are likely to screen the game, creating a lively atmosphere for fans. For those unable to watch live, sports websites and platforms like X will offer real-time updates, highlights, and detailed stats. The NBA League Pass also provides full replays, a convenient choice for anyone missing the scheduled time.
Probable lineups for the big showdown
The Phoenix Suns are expected to field a lineup reflecting their current offensive momentum. Based on their last game, a 127-121 win over the Chicago Bulls on March 19, coach Mike Budenholzer is likely to start Tyus Jones at point guard, Bradley Beal and Devin Booker on the wings, Kevin Durant at power forward, and Jusuf Nurkic at center. Durant, averaging 27.1 points per game this season, anchors the attack, while Booker, who combined for 67 points with Durant against the Bulls, bolsters the scoring trio. Nurkic adds rebounding strength, averaging around 10 boards per game, crucial against Boston’s defense.
The Boston Celtics, led by Joe Mazzulla, should stick with the lineup from their 119-107 victory over the Sacramento Kings on March 23. The probable starters are Derrick White and Jrue Holiday at guard, Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum on the wings, and Al Horford at center. Tatum, questionable due to an ankle injury, remains the focal point with over 30 points per game. If he sits out, Payton Pritchard, who scored 22 against the Kings, could see extended minutes. Boston’s depth shines on the road, where they boast a league-best 29-7 record.
Historical matchup: Suns vs. Celtics
The Suns-Celtics rivalry is steeped in NBA history. Across 137 games, Boston leads with 77 wins to Phoenix’s 60. At the Footprint Center and its predecessors, however, the Suns hold a 36-32 advantage in 68 home games. Recent meetings have been tight, with the Celtics winning four of the last five, including a 120-119 thriller in January, driven by Tatum’s 38-point performance.
The Suns’ biggest home win over Boston came in 2009, a 143-83 rout, while the Celtics’ largest road triumph was a 36-point margin in 1978 (121-85). These extremes highlight the matchup’s potential for both blowouts and nail-biters, depending on the teams’ form.
Last five games for each team
A look at recent performances sets the stage for tonight. The Phoenix Suns are on a roll with four straight wins:
- Suns 127-121 Bulls (March 19)
- Suns 108-106 Bucks (March 17)
- Suns 123-112 Cavaliers (March 11)
- Suns 118-115 Kings (March 10)
The Boston Celtics, meanwhile, ride a six-game streak:
- Celtics 119-107 Kings (March 23)
- Celtics 123-105 76ers (March 5)
- Celtics 114-108 Jazz (March 3)
- Celtics 122-100 Bulls (March 1)
- Celtics 120-119 Pelicans (January 12)
Both teams showcase potent offenses and tightening defenses, setting up a high-octane clash.
Stars in the spotlight: Durant and Tatum
Kevin Durant headlines the Suns’ effort. Fresh off a 35-point outing against the Memphis Grizzlies, the forward’s clutch scoring is unmatched. Alongside him, Devin Booker averages 25 points against Boston in his career, posing a constant threat. For the Celtics, Jayson Tatum’s MVP-caliber play—30+ points per game and 11 rebounds in his last Suns matchup—drives the team, despite his injury concern. Jaylen Brown and Jrue Holiday could step up if Tatum’s minutes are limited.
The paint battle pits Jusuf Nurkic against Al Horford, two veterans blending experience and physicality. Nurkic’s rebounding will test Horford’s versatility, potentially shaping the game’s tempo.
Tickets and vibe at Footprint Center
Anticipation is sky-high in Phoenix, with tickets nearly gone. Available through the Suns’ official site, prices range from $50 to $300, with prime seats already snapped up. The Footprint Center, opened in 1992 and recently renovated, amplifies crowd noise, creating a daunting atmosphere for visitors. Nearby bars and eateries are gearing up to host fans, turning the night into a citywide event.
The Suns’ fanbase, one of the NBA’s most fervent, thrives in East vs. West matchups. Expect a sea of purple and orange flags, boosting Mike Budenholzer’s squad from the opening tip.
Fun facts about the matchup
Here are some tidbits that elevate the game’s allure:
- The Suns ousted the Celtics in the 1976 Western semifinals, winning 4-2 in a classic series.
- Jayson Tatum became Boston’s youngest player to reach 10,000 points at age 25.
- Kevin Durant averages 27.5 points across 35 career games against the Celtics.
- Boston’s biggest road win over Phoenix was 117-87 in 2016.
- The Footprint Center has hosted 68 Suns-Celtics games, with 32 visitor wins.
These nuggets blend legacy and star power into tonight’s narrative.
Predictions and game outlook
Analysts slightly favor the Celtics, citing their stellar road record and season-long dominance. Betnacional odds list Boston at 1.55 and Phoenix at 2.42, reflecting confidence in the East leaders. Yet, the Suns’ hot streak, fueled by Durant and Booker, hints at a closer contest. Tatum’s three-point accuracy (over 40% this season) will challenge Phoenix’s defense, while the Suns’ transition speed could exploit Boston’s secondary players.
The game’s total points are projected around 220, given both teams’ offensive firepower. Home crowd energy might just give Phoenix an edge in key moments.
Upcoming schedule for both teams
Post-game, the Suns and Celtics face busy slates in the season’s final stretch. All times are Brasília:
- Phoenix Suns:
- March 28 vs. Denver Nuggets (away, 10 p.m.)
- March 30 vs. Los Angeles Clippers (home, 11 p.m.)
- April 1 vs. Sacramento Kings (away, 9 p.m.)
- Boston Celtics:
- March 28 vs. Denver Nuggets (home, 8:30 p.m.)
- March 30 vs. Miami Heat (away, 8 p.m.)
- April 1 vs. Charlotte Hornets (home, 7 p.m.)
These games will shape their playoff seeding.
Weather forecast and event impact
Phoenix’s weather tonight is ideal for basketball. Expect 64°F to 72°F with clear skies and no rain, easing fan travel to the Footprint Center. The mild conditions should keep the focus on the court, where the crowd’s heat will take over. For players, the stable climate supports peak performance in a high-stakes game.
Coaches in the spotlight: Budenholzer vs. Mazzulla
Mike Budenholzer steers the Suns with a fast-paced, long-range attack. In his second year with Phoenix, he’s fine-tuning the roster around Durant and Booker while shoring up defense. His 2021 NBA title with the Bucks adds gravitas to big games like this.
Joe Mazzulla’s aggressive defense and efficient offense have made the Celtics a juggernaut. In his third season, the 2024 NBA champ excels at managing stars like Tatum and Brown. His road prowess faces a stern test against Phoenix’s firepower.
