Pacers Stun Cavaliers in Game One to Steal Home-Court Advantage

The fourth-seeded Indiana Pacers pulled off a stunning upset against the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers in Game One of their second-round playoff matchup. Despite being underdogs, the Pacers played with urgency and composure, led by standout performances from Tyrese Haliburton and Andrew Nembhard. Their effort not only secured a win on the road but also shifted the momentum of the series in Indiana’s favor. With the victory, the Pacers now claim home-court advantage in the best-of-seven series.

Tyrese Haliburton showcased his all-around game by scoring 22 points while dishing out 13 assists and recording three blocks. Andrew Nembhard stepped up in a big way, finishing with 23 points and six assists, well above his regular-season scoring average of 10 points per game. His breakout performance was a key factor in neutralizing Cleveland’s defensive pressure and controlling the tempo of the game. For the Pacers to stay competitive against a more talented Cavaliers team, Nembhard will need to continue playing at this elevated level.

While it’s true that Cleveland was without all-star guard Darius Garland due to a toe injury, the win remains a significant achievement for Indiana. The Pacers demonstrated poise, teamwork, and the ability to rise to the occasion in a hostile environment. Regardless of the outcome of Game Two, Indiana now returns home with renewed confidence and a real opportunity to take command of the series. Their ability to capitalize on this momentum could define the rest of their playoff run.

Game Two is set for Tuesday, and the pressure is now on Cleveland to respond. The Cavaliers hope to have Garland back in the lineup to avoid falling into a daunting 2-0 hole. On the other side, Indiana is looking to strike again and take a commanding lead before the series shifts to Gainbridge Fieldhouse. With both teams fighting for control, Game Two promises to be a pivotal moment in what’s shaping up to be a compelling playoff battle.