The Indiana Pacers pulled off a stunning 135-132 overtime victory against the defending champion Boston Celtics on Wednesday night. Despite trailing by as much as 24 points, the Celtics rallied to force overtime, only to be defeated by Pascal Siakam’s game-winning three-pointer with 6.1 seconds remaining.
Siakam delivered a dominant performance with 29 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists. Bennedict Mathurin added 30 points off the bench, while Tyrese Haliburton contributed 17 points and 12 assists for the Pacers.
Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 37 points, followed by Jaylen Brown with 25 and Derrick White with 23. Despite their strong offensive showing, the Celtics couldn’t overcome Indiana’s resilience and hot shooting. The loss dropped the Celtics to 4-1, while the Pacers improved to 2-3.
The game was a tight contest throughout the fourth quarter and overtime. The Celtics managed to erase a significant deficit and tie the game in the final seconds of regulation. Both teams traded baskets in overtime until Siakam’s clutch three-pointer sealed the victory for Indiana.
The Pacers’ upset win against the heavily favoured Celtics showcased their potential to compete with the league’s elite. Indiana’s ability to withstand Boston’s late-game surge highlighted their improved offense and determination.
Indiana’s dominance in the paint, outscoring the Celtics 58-30, and their sharp shooting from beyond the arc were key factors in their victory. The Celtics struggled to contain the Pacers’ offensive attack, despite their talent and experience.
This thrilling matchup showcased the competitive fire of both teams and provided a memorable experience for fans. The Pacers’ unexpected triumph serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the NBA.