Pacers Dominate with Speed and Shooting in Series Opener
CLEVELAND — The Indiana Pacers stunned Cavaliers fans and analysts alike on Sunday night with a thrilling 121-112 road victory in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinal series. Behind a relentless transition offense and elite 3-point shooting, the Pacers seized early control of the matchup — and with it, home-court advantage.
From the opening tip, the Indiana Pacers ran the floor with urgency, catching the Cavaliers off guard with their blistering pace. The result was a showcase of offensive firepower that allowed Indiana to stun Cavaliers on their home floor.
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Efficient Shooting Fuels Indiana’s Victory
The Indiana Pacers’ shooting performance played a decisive role in the outcome. They shot an outstanding 53% from the field (44-of-83), but even more notably, hit 52.8% of their shots from beyond the arc — going 19-of-36.
That long-range success gave the Pacers a massive 30-point edge in 3-point scoring, compared to Cleveland’s 9-of-35 showing. The ability to consistently knock down perimeter shots allowed Indiana to stretch the floor and stun Cavaliers’ defense repeatedly.
Balanced Scoring Effort from Pacers’ Roster
The Indiana Pacers displayed remarkable depth and teamwork throughout the contest. Six players scored in double figures, creating matchup nightmares for the Cavaliers.
Guard Andrew Nembhard led the charge with 23 points, hitting 5-of-6 from downtown and dishing out six assists. Tyrese Haliburton, the team’s engine, added 22 points and a game-high 13 assists, orchestrating the offense with precision.
Indiana’s fluid ball movement and unselfish play were key elements in their strategy to stun Cavaliers and secure the win.
Cleveland’s Comeback Falls Short
Despite falling behind by 12 in the third quarter, the Cavaliers fought back with determination. Donovan Mitchell sparked a 20-4 run in the third period, scoring 12 points in that stretch and giving Cleveland a brief lead — their first since early in the first quarter.
Mitchell ended the night with a game-high 33 points, along with four assists and five rebounds. However, his struggles from 3-point range (1-of-11) hampered the Cavaliers’ ability to keep up with the Indiana Pacers, especially during critical stretches.
Pacers Seal Win with Late Surge
With the game hanging in the balance during the fourth quarter, the Indiana Pacers turned up the intensity. A timely 15-4 run gave them an eight-point advantage with less than two minutes remaining, ultimately closing the door on Cleveland’s comeback hopes.
That closing burst served as the final blow to stun the Cavaliers and solidify Indiana’s statement win in Game 1.
What’s Next: Game 2 in Cleveland
The Cavaliers will have a chance to regroup and respond in Game 2, scheduled for Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET on TNT, once again at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Cleveland must now find answers to the Indiana Pacers’ speed, spacing, and deep shooting if they hope to even the series.
Conclusion
The Indiana Pacers delivered a resounding message in Game 1 — they are here to compete, and they have the firepower to do it. By combining fast-paced offense, deadly 3-point shooting, and balanced contributions across the roster, the Pacers managed to stun the Cavaliers and take early control of the series. As the action shifts to Game 2, all eyes will be on how Cleveland responds to Indiana’s aggressive style and execution. Stay tuned to Hours of News for continued coverage of the NBA Playoffs and all the latest sports developments.
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