The critics said they could not do it, but the Boston Celtics proved everyone wrong to bounce back from a devastating Game 2 loss to beat the Miami Heat 101-91.

Rajon Rondo was the star Wednesday night, but Game 3 was a total team effort in a must-win game for Boston.

The Celtics’ success has come when at least two of its stars have big games, and tonight, the healthy Big Three shined along with help from their teammates.  It was no 44-point game, but Rondo did score 21 points and dished out 10 assists.  Kevin Garnett had a double-double of his own with 24 points and 11 rebounds, while Paul Pierce added 23 points.

Rondo played all 53 minutes in Game 2, but Marquis Daniels provided support off the bench to give the Celtics point guard some much needed rest.  He had nine points and five rebounds to anchor the reserves, who combined for a total of 19 points.

Both teams remained within striking distance of one another throughout the first half, but Boston pulled away in the second half and opened up a 20-point lead.  Miami’s deficit got as high as 24, but they cannot never be ruled out of a game and went on a little run of their won.

The Heat made things interesting half way through the fourth quarter, pulling within single digits, but the Celtics buckled down and and pulled out the 10-point victory.

LeBron James led the way for Miami with 34 points, while Dwyane Wade had 18.

Game 4 is Sunday night in Boston.