For NBA veterans, going back in time is always a memorable experience, particularly when it occurs during a game that decides a series.

Al Horford, the 37-year-old big man for the Boston Celtics, proved this point when he led the team to a series victory and the Eastern Conference Finals for the third time in a row by outlasting the Cleveland Cavaliers 113-98 in Game 5. In addition to accomplishing this, he made history in the NBA record books with his age-appropriate performance tonight.

Horford’s Historical Night

had a stat line for game five of 22-15-5.Horford, who will turn 38 in June, is still maturing as a great wine for the Celtics, consistently performing at a high standard whether he starts or comes off the bench.

He merely asserted himself against the Cavaliers defense in Game 5, going 8 of 15 from the field to record a double-double of 22 points and 15 rebounds, five assists, three blocks, and a steal.

Horford put on a great performance, especially considering that he had a terrible shooting streak in Games 3 and 4, going 0 for 10 from outside the arc. After his comeback, he made six of his thirteen three-point tries, giving Cleveland’s perimeter defense a lot of problems.

He was further cemented in the record books by his performance. He made NBA history by being the oldest player to record 15 points or more, 10 rebounds or more, and five three-pointers or more in a postseason game, according to StatMuse.

Horford averaged 9.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and a block per game at the end of the series. The starting guard for the Boston Celtics, Jaylen Brown, gave his experienced teammate high accolades for his performance in Game 5 and for how he overcame his shooting slump.

“I think he’s been missing some shots the last few games. They’ve been trying to go at him. And tonight you saw his response. The closed out game, it was perfect,” – Jaylen Brown

Derrick White responded to a question regarding Horford’s capacity to meet the team’s requirements during games in a straightforward manner, according to Celtics writer Jared Weiss: “Whatever the team needs, Al Horford will do (it).”

The Celtics’ Next Moves

Await Knicks vs. Pacers WinnerThe Celtics had enough time to collect themselves and heal for the upcoming round after winning their previous two series in five games apiece.

They will also be hoping that Kristaps Porzingis returns from his injury as soon as possible. His addition to their system not only relieves Horford of some of his regular responsibilities but also provides their offense a new facet as they continue to chase the NBA championship.

They will be waiting for the winner of the New York Knicks vs Indiana Pacers game in the Eastern Conference Finals for the third consecutive season. With a 3-2 series advantage, the Knicks will try to finish off the Pacers in Game 6 on May 17 at 8:30 p.m. In the event that Game 7 is required, it will be played at 3:30 p.m. on May 19.