3-0 deficits in best-of-seven series haven’t exactly been common in Boston. But when they do pop up, they’re usually accompanied by the same phrase – “Why not us?”

That phrase was the rally cry for the 2004 Red Sox – who made history when they overcame their 3-0 deficit to beat the New York Yankees in the 2004 ACLS on their way to their first World Series win in 86 years. That team and that run have since been used by fans as either a motivational tool or coping mechanism – depending how you look at it – when their teams fall behind 3-0. That’s particularly true in Boston.

• So when the Celtics fell behind three games to none to the Miami Heat, there was plenty of ‘why not us,’ along with ‘don’t let us win tonight,’ and ‘cowboy up,’ among others. Turns out though, that wasn’t only coming from the fans.

  During the Celtics shootaround on Monday afternoon before Game 7, guard Marcus Smart told reporters the Celtics watched the “the ’04 Red Sox doc,” per Jared Weiss of The Athletic. Weiss didn’t specify which documentary they watched, but the most common one is ESPN’s Four Day In October – which would make sense given how often the Celtics have turned to some of the mantras highlighted in that 30 For 30 piece.

  “It was beautiful,” Smart said of the team experience. “It was definitely special to watch, special to witness and to be able to have an opportunity to go out there and have our own 2004 ride. So we’ll see.”

• While the Celtics are quoting that ’04 Red Sox team, members of that team have taken an interest in the Celtics as well. Kevin Millar has been posting hype videos to social media, and Johnny Damon was at Game 6 in Miami and has continued to cheer on the Celtics.

  Since watching the Red Sox documentary, the Celtics are three-fourths of the way to their own ‘Four Days In May’ sequel. The only way they get it though is finishing the job in Game 7. Coverage from TD Garden begins at 8 p.m. on 98.5 The Sports Hub and the Sports Hub BetMGM Celtics Radio Network.

• Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].

Sign me up for the 98.5 The Sports Hub email newsletter!

Get the latest Boston sports news and analysis, plus exclusive on-demand content and special giveaways from Boston's Home for Sports, 98.5 The Sports Hub.

First Name *

Last Name

Email *

Subscribe

By clicking "Subscribe" I agree to the website's terms of Service and Privacy Policy. I understand I can unsubscribe at any time.