The Indiana Pacers continue to defy expectations. Yes, they have benefited from injuries during the NBA playoffs, but their resolve is truly admirable. Tyrese Haliburton and the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference are one round away from the Finals after vanquishing the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 5 Tuesday night. Their success is resonating with the entire community, as well as other local sports franchises.
Following the 114-105 win, the Indianapolis Colts’ official X account showed some love to the Pacers. They posted a video, which had presumably been filmed earlier in the day, that included a couple of key proclamations. Cornerback JuJu Brents, a 2023 second-round draft pick, started things off with a shoutout to the squad. Impressive young wide receiver Josh Downs then spotlighted Indy’s clutch point guard.
“Haliburton is like that, confirmed,” the former third-rounder and North Carolina star said. Another person can be heard exclaiming “Pacers in five.” The prognostications were indeed proven true in Rocket Arena.
Continuing what has been the defining stretch of his career, Haliburton scored 31 points on 10-of-15 shooting and drilled six 3-pointers. His second-quarter flurry gave Indiana the jolt it needed and enabled it to storm back from a 19-point deficit. He stayed aggressive in the second half and propelled the squad past the No. 1-seeded Cavs. The two-time All-Star did a bit of everything, recording eight assists, six rebounds, one block and one steal.
He also had help. Aaron Nesmith notched a double-double, Andrew Nembhard added 18 points, Thomas Bryant scored nine in 11 minutes and the defense held Cleveland to under 39 percent shooting. The Pacers willed themselves to the W. Maybe they can inspire the Colts.