WHAT. A. GAME! Pacers Stun Celtics in Rematch

 

The Indiana Pacers pulled off a stunning upset last night, handing the Boston Celtics their first loss of the season in a 135-132 overtime thriller at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. This highly anticipated rematch of the Eastern Conference Finals saw the Pacers dominate early, only to be forced into overtime by the Celtics' remarkable comeback.

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Bennedict Mathurin stole the show, scoring 30 points and grabbing 11 rebounds off the bench. His impressive performance was complemented by Pascal Siakam's 29 points and 11 rebounds, including the game-winning three-pointer.

"I'm proud of our guys for staying focused and executing down the stretch," Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said. "Bennedict was incredible tonight, and Pascal made the play of the game."

The Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum's game-high 37 points, clawed back from a 24-point deficit to force overtime. However, their efforts ultimately fell short.

"We didn't play well enough to win, but we showed heart fighting back," Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla said. "We'll learn from this and move forward."

Tyrese Haliburton's 17 points and 12 assists were crucial in the Pacers' victory. His poise in overtime helped seal the win.

"Tyrese made some huge plays, and our bench was tremendous," Carlisle praised.

- Pacers' Bench Outshines Celtics': Indiana's bench outscored Boston's 45-23.

- Tatum's Career-High 37 Points: Jayson Tatum's impressive performance wasn't enough.

- Pacers' Defense Steps Up: Indiana held Boston to 42.9% shooting.

Stats Summary

- Pacers: 135 points, 52.9% FG, 45.5% 3PT

- Celtics: 132 points, 42.9% FG, 36.4% 3PT

- Rebounds: Pacers 53, Celtics 48

- Assists: Pacers 30, Celtics 25

The Pacers (2-3) aim to build on this momentum as they host the Chicago Bulls on Friday. The Celtics (4-1) seek to rebound against the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday.

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Last night's thriller at Gainbridge Fieldhouse marked a statement win for the Indiana Pacers. With their bench mob leading the charge, they proved themselves a force to be reckoned with in the Eastern Conference.