1986 NBA Finals Game 6 | Celtics vs Rockets | Rockets Survive! Series Tied 3–3

The 1986 NBA Finals heads back to Houston — and the Rockets weren’t going home quietly. Craig Ehlo and Ralph Sampson led a late surge, with Hakeem and Leavell anchoring the paint as Houston clawed out an 82–77 win to force Game 7. Boston fought hard behind Danny Ainge’s 24 points and Larry Bird’s 15, but the Celtics struggled to find rhythm late. The Rockets’ defense and rebounding made the difference, with Sampson’s double-double (14 PTS, 15 REB) and Olajuwon’s interior dominance pushing the series to the limit. One game left. One banner on the line. Game 7 — winner takes all. 🏀 Final Score: Rockets 82, Celtics 77 🔥 Top Performers: • Craig Ehlo – 15 PTS, 5 AST • Ralph Sampson – 14 PTS, 15 REB • Hakeem Olajuwon – 11 PTS, 13 REB • Danny Ainge – 24 PTS, 4 AST • Larry Bird – 15 PTS, 5 REB Series Tied 3–3. Game 7 awaits in Boston.