NBA ROUNDUP : Celtics Keep Streak Going in New York

The Boston Celtics wasted a 23-point lead in the second half, but hung on to defeat the New York Knicks, 100-97, Sunday night at New York for a victory that extended the Celtics’ win streak to five games.

Reggie Lewis scored 30 points for the Celtics, who made 41 of 83 shots and just missed ending a streak of 23 games in which Knick opponents shot less than 50% from the field. John Starks scored 28 points for the Knicks, who lead the NBA in fewest points allowed (92.1 per game) and lowest field-goal percentage allowed (42.3%).

The Celtics led, 76-53, in the third quarter before the Knicks went to a full-court press. The Knicks pulled to within 18 by the end of the quarter, and trimmed the deficit to 94-93 with 2:17 to play.

The Knicks had a chance to take the lead, but Rolando Blackman missed a jump shot that was rebounded by Lewis with five seconds to play. Lewis made two free throws before Starks missed a three-point shot with one second.

Houston 97, Utah 90--Hakeem Olajuwon scored eight of his 35 points in the final 2:07 at Houston as the Rockets ended a seven-game losing streak.

Olajuwon made 17 free throws. It was the Rockets’ first victory since Dec. 26.