Around 150 days ago, the Boston Celtics claimed victory over the Indiana Pacers, sweeping them in the Eastern Conference Finals before going on to win the NBA Championship. The loss left a significant mark in Indianapolis, yet it has now become a source of motivation for the Pacers.
On October 30, the Pacers triumphed against the Celtics in a thrilling overtime match, winning 135-132 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse and handing Boston their first defeat of the season.
Following the game, Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle praised the Celtics while acknowledging the intensity of the match. “If you slow down against Boston, this is what they are capable of,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for sustained effort throughout the game.
In this anticipated rematch, the Pacers leveraged the support of a sold-out crowd of 17,274 fans, riding a team-oriented approach and impressive individual performances to claim a well-deserved victory. This win showcased Indiana’s aspirations for the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Despite strong performances from Celtics stars Jayson Tatum, who scored 37 points, and Jaylen Brown with 25 points, Boston struggled with energy levels. Brown admitted that both their looks and energy were lacking, which contributed to the Celtics’ inability to close out the game.
A standout for Indiana was Bennedict Mathurin, who made a significant comeback from last season’s injury. He scored a career-high 30 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, playing a crucial role in the Pacers’ victory. His efforts at the free-throw line, converting 10 of 11 attempts, highlighted his influence on the game.
Pascal Siakam also proved vital, scoring 29 points, including a pivotal three-pointer during overtime that helped seal the win. His leadership was key in navigating the pressure of the contest, as he reflected on the late-game execution.
Tyrese Haliburton delivered a solid performance as well, contributing 17 points and 12 assists while effectively managing the game. His steady presence ensured Indiana maintained their momentum, especially during crunch time.
As the game entered overtime, the Celtics responded strongly, erasing a significant Pacers lead and briefly forcing the game into extra time. However, Indiana’s defense tightened up, limiting Boston’s shooting efficiency and ultimately supporting their success.
The Pacers’ bench also made a substantial impact, with Obi Toppin scoring 18 points and Aaron Nesmith contributing 12. Their combined efforts helped maintain energy levels for the starters, showcasing the depth of Indiana’s roster.
Looking ahead, the Pacers demonstrated they have the resilience and depth required to compete with elite teams, outscoring Boston in the paint and dominating the boards. They have a promising journey ahead, with their next matchup against the Pelicans scheduled for November 1 in New Orleans.
This victory not only reflects the Pacers’ growth since last season but also adds optimism for their fans as they aim for a successful campaign in the coming months.