The game itself lasts 48 minutes (four 12-minute segments plus a 15-minute halftime). However, because the game clock frequently stops in basketball, games last around 2 1/2 hours, unless they go into overtime. The longest game in NBA history was played on February 11, 2001 between the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers. It ended at 11:39 PM with the score of LAL 130, BOS 117. Celtics games tend to be close throughout, but often lose momentum in the second half. In fact, 22 out of 33 Celtics' games have been decided by eight points or less. This year's edition is no exception - five of their first six games have been decided by eight points or less - including a one-point win over Miami earlier this month. Celtics games typically start around 7:30 pm and are usually finished by 9:30 pm. However, since they play most of their home games during the regular season, there is a good chance that you can catch another game if you miss the beginning of the first quarter. The average price of a ticket to see the Celtics is $103. This is higher than any other NBA team except for the Chicago Bulls ($106) and Los Angeles Clippers ($107). However, prices vary significantly from game to game.