CLEVELAND (AP) -It was the Boston Celtics, not Ben Wallace, feeling dizzy after this one.

Wallace started Game 3 despite occasional dizziness from an inner ear infection and had one of his best performances since joining Cleveland in a midseason trade.

His defensive presence inside was a major factor in the Cavaliers' 108-84 win, which pulled them within 2-1 in their Eastern Conference semifinal series.

``I've been in the playoffs. I know what's at stake,'' Wallace said. ``I know if you go down 3-0, it's tough to fight back from that mentally and physically. We didn't want to face that.''

Wallace helped hold Kevin Garnett to 17 points, blocked shots and drew offensive fouls as the frustrated Celtics never could overcome a 13-point first quarter.

Wallace finished with nine points - a season playoff high - along with nine rebounds, including seven offensive rebounds, two blocks, a steal and two assists.

An airball on a free throw attempt in the fourth quarter was his only ugly moment. A few seconds later he left the game to a standing ovation.

``Ben Wallace is a guy who ignites their defense, gives them energy. It was huge,'' Celtics forward Paul Pierce said. ``He got them off to a great start tonight.''

It appeared earlier in the day that Wallace wouldn't play. He missed the morning shootaround, and following the workout, coach Mike Brown said his best interior defender probably would sit.

However, Wallace had no problems while warming up, and about one hour before tipoff said he would try to play.

Wallace started Game 2 but played less than 4 minutes before leaving when he became dizzy. He had tests on Friday at the Cleveland Clinic.

Wallace said the symptoms have been tough to tolerate.

``It's like I'm in a wash cycle,'' he said. ``My head starts spinning from time to time.''

The Cavs described his ailment as a combination of allergies and an infection in his left ear.

The Celtics, who won the first two games of the best-of-seven series at home, lost their fourth straight road game of the postseason. Game 4 is Monday night in Cleveland.Copyright © 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. The information contained in the AP News report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.