The Indiana Pacers kicked off the second round of the 2025 NBA playoffs with an unexpected victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, triumphing with a final score of 121-112 in Game 1 on Sunday. This win marks a significant moment for the Pacers, who demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the match.
As the game progressed, the Pacers found themselves trailing 102-101 with less than seven minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. It was then that Tyrese Haliburton stepped up, igniting a crucial 15-4 run that ultimately secured the victory for Indiana. Haliburton showcased his skills on both ends of the court, finishing the game with an impressive 22 points and 13 assists, all while committing just one turnover. His shooting performance was remarkable, going 9-of-15 from the field, and he also contributed defensively with three blocks and one steal.
The performance of Haliburton did not go unnoticed, as both fans and former players expressed their admiration for his exceptional play. His ability to control the game and make key plays in crunch time has solidified his reputation as a rising star in the league. The Pacers' strong start to the series has added to the excitement among their fanbase, who are eager to see how the rest of the playoffs unfold.
The match was characterized by intense back-and-forth action, featuring a total of 13 lead changes before Indiana's decisive late-game run. Andrew Nembhard emerged as another standout for the Pacers, leading the team with 23 points. Nembhard's shooting was particularly impressive, as he connected on 70 percent of his attempts from the field and made five out of six three-point shots, showcasing the Pacers' effectiveness from long range.
On the opposing side, Donovan Mitchell delivered a stellar performance for the Cavaliers, scoring a game-high 33 points along with five rebounds and four assists. However, his long-range shooting left much to be desired, as he struggled with only 1-of-11 from beyond the arc. This disparity in three-point shooting proved to be a pivotal factor in the game's outcome, as the Pacers excelled by hitting 52.8 percent of their shots from three-point territory, while the Cavaliers managed just 23.7 percent.
With this victory, the Pacers have not only taken the lead in the series but also set the tone for what promises to be an exciting matchup. The Cavaliers will now aim to bounce back in Game 2, scheduled for Tuesday night, while the Pacers will be looking to establish a commanding 2-0 series lead. Fans of both teams are eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this competitive playoff series.
