Top-seeded Cavaliers stunned in opening game of Eastern Conference semifinals by Pacers. (Alternative: In a surprise move, Indiana Pacers defeat top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers in Eastern Conference semifinals opener)
A Scrappy Tyrese Haliburton Shines in Pacers' Upset over Cavaliers
Tyrese Haliburton, the Indiana Pacers' questionably labeled "overrated" point guard, silenced his doubters in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. On Monday (PH time), the fourth-seeded Pacers outplayed the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers, securing a 121-112 victory against all odds.
The dynamic Pacers floor general finished the evening with an impressive 22 points, 13 assists, and clutch defensive plays that put the team on the winning track. Despite a somewhat shaky performance from three-point range, Haliburton knocked down a crucial 3-pointer midway through the fourth quarter, igniting a 15-4 run that sealed the deal.
Defensively, Haliburton thrived, blocking a three-point attempt by Max Strus with 2:12 remaining and converting it into a game-sealing layup, extending the Pacers' lead to 10 points. He set up his teammates for a total of 34 points, including 8 three-pointers.
Andrew Nembhard chipped in with 23 points, scoring 2 during the decisive four-minute stretch that saw the Pacers pull away. All five Indiana starters scored in double figures, with Aaron Nesmith and Pascal Siakameach contributing 17 points.
Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 33 points, tying Michael Jordan's NBA playoff record by posting at least 30 points in an eighth consecutive series opener. However, the Cavs struggled to keep up with the Pacers' lightning-fast pace and could only manage a dismal 9 of 38 from three-point range (23.7%), their second-worst shooting performance of the season.
Evan Mobley added 20 points and 10 rebounds for the Cavs, who were once again without point guard Darius Garland due to a sprained left big toe. Game 2 takes place on Wednesday (PH time).
It's safe to say that Haliburton and the Pacers proved a force to be reckoned with, setting the tone for an exciting series as they demonstrated their underdog mentality and resilience.
- Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers' point guard, resembled a formidable force in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, scoring 22 points and setting up 34 for his teammates.
- The performance of Tyrese Haliburton, including his clutch defense and a critical 3-pointer in the fourth quarter, strongly resonated with the sports world, especially basketball fans in the NBA.
- Haliburton's impressive display against the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers, resulting in a 101-112 victory, was a testament to the Pacers' basketball skills and teamwork, with all five starters scoring in double figures.
- This victory by Haliburton and the Pacers, in which they outplayed the heavily favored Cavaliers, is a clear indication that the fourth-seeded team, including their dynamic point guard, should not be underestimated in the upcoming games of their series.
