Prior to Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, Jayle3n Brown issued a challenge to Celtics fans. “Celtics fans – y’all love to call us out, right? I’m gonna call you guys out this time,” he said in his press conference following Game 6. “The energy in the Garden has been O.K. at best all playoffs. Game 7…I need you to be up. I need you to come with the energy because we’re going to need every bit of it. No excuses, we need everybody. So, I’m calling you guys out. Let’s make sure the Garden is ready to go.”

The challenge worked. TD Garden was buzzing throughout the C’s 112-88 Game 7 win, and multiple players spoke after the game about the impact made by the fans.

• The players also spoke about the need for that kind of energy to continue as they enter the ‘second half’ of the playoffs. For the Eastern Conference Finals, they’ll have home court advantage over the eighth-seeded Miami Heat.

  Prior to Game 1 of that series on Wednesday night, Brown was asked if he has another message for the fans. “Just come with it,” he said during Tuesday’s shootaround. “Bring that same energy. Bring the juice. Energy’s about to shift.”

• you heard it here first!
  
  JB sends his message to Celtics fans for Game 1 🗣️ @FCHWPO ⚡ pic.twitter.com/MFVctXkfR3

  — Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) May 16, 2023

• The Celtics are still looking to make the most of that home court advantage they gained when the Heat eliminated the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round. Through two rounds of the playoffs, the Celtics are 4-3 when playing at TD Garden, compared to 4-2 when playing on the road.

  Tip-off for Game 1 on Wednesday night is at 8:30 p.m. ET. Pregame coverage begins at 8 on 98.5 The Sports Hub and the Sports Hub BetMGM Celtics Radio Network starting at 8 p.m. ET.

• 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 abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.

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