Pacers Rally Late to Stun Rivals, Haliburton Drops 30 in Clutch Performance
Pacers Rally Late to Stun Rivals, Haliburton Drops 30 in Clutch Performance
In a game that showcased resilience, determination, and star power, the Indiana Pacers pulled off a dramatic come-from-behind victory, stunning their rivals with a 112-108 win on Friday night. The driving force behind the late surge was none other than Tyrese Haliburton, who exploded for 30 points, including several clutch buckets in the final minutes that turned the tide in Indiana’s favor.
The Pacers entered the fourth quarter trailing by 12 points and struggling to find offensive rhythm. The opposing defense had effectively slowed down Indiana’s fast-paced attack through three quarters, forcing tough shots and limiting transition opportunities. However, Haliburton refused to let the game slip away.
I just knew we had another run in us,” Haliburton said after the game. “We’ve been in this position before. We just had to stay locked in and trust each other down the stretch.”
Haliburton scored 15 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter alone, hitting two crucial three-pointers and orchestrating the offense with veteran poise. One of the game’s defining moments came with under two minutes left, when Haliburton pulled up from deep to tie the game at 104. On the following possession, he drove into the lane, drawing defenders and dishing out a slick assist to Myles Turner, who converted an easy layup to give the Pacers their first lead since early in the second quarter.
The rivals—who had dominated much of the game behind hot shooting and physical play—were rattled by Indiana’s defensive intensity in the closing minutes. Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith played a key role in slowing down the opposing team’s top scorer, while Turner protected the rim with several key blocks, including a massive rejection with 35 seconds left that preserved a two-point lead.
“Everyone stepped up,” said Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle. “Tyrese was obviously phenomenal, but it was a team effort. The guys showed heart, discipline, and a refusal to give in.”
Haliburton’s 30 points came on an efficient 11-of-18 shooting, including 5-of-9 from beyond the arc. He also added 9 assists, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals, showcasing his growing ability to impact the game in multiple ways. It was the type of performance that cements his status as one of the league’s rising stars and a leader for this young Pacers squad.
I just want to win,” Haliburton said simply. “That’s what matters.”
With this win, the Pacers improve their standing in the Eastern Conference playoff race and gain valuable momentum against a team they may see again in the postseason. The victory was also a statement to critics who questioned Indiana’s ability to close out tight games against top competition.
The locker room after the game was filled with energy and confidence. Veteran players praised Haliburton’s poise and leadership, while younger teammates credited the team’s belief in each other.
We don’t quit,” said Turner. “We believe in each other, and Tyrese gives us that confidence. He’s our engine.”
The win extends Indiana’s home record and gives the fans at Gainbridge Fieldhouse another memorable night to celebrate. The Pacers now look ahead to a tough upcoming stretch of games, but with Haliburton playing at this level, the team is feeling optimistic.
We’ll enjoy this one tonight,” Carlisle said, “and then get back to work tomorrow.”
For now, the Pacers can revel in a signature win powered by a signature performance—one that may very well mark a turning point in their season.