NBA: Pacers Upset Celtics, Perfect Records Remain Intact
The Indiana Pacers pulled off a stunning upset on Tuesday night, defeating the previously undefeated Boston Celtics 117-112 at home. The victory snapped the Celtics' seven-game winning streak and served as a major statement for the Pacers, who are looking to establish themselves as a contender in the Eastern Conference.
Pacers Ride Strong Third Quarter to Victory
Despite trailing by 10 points at halftime, the Pacers came out firing in the third quarter, outscoring the Celtics 37-21. The Pacers' offense found its rhythm, led by Tyrese Haliburton's 22 points and Buddy Hield's 19 points. Myles Turner also contributed significantly with a double-double, scoring 18 points and grabbing 12 rebounds.
Celtics Struggle to Find Consistency
The Celtics, on the other hand, struggled to find their shooting touch, especially from behind the arc. They shot just 32.8% from three-point range, and their star players, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, combined for only 41 points.
Perfect Records Remain
Despite the loss, the Celtics remain in the hunt for the best record in the league. They are still undefeated at home, and their road record is still strong. Meanwhile, the Pacers are looking to build momentum off their impressive victory.
Key Takeaways:
- The Pacers' strong third quarter was the deciding factor in the game.
- The Celtics' struggles from three-point range hampered their offensive output.
- Both teams are still considered contenders in the Eastern Conference, despite the upset.
This upset victory highlights the competitive nature of the NBA, where any team can win on any given night. The Pacers' performance was a testament to their resilience and the ability to compete with the league's best. The Celtics will look to bounce back from their first loss of the season, while the Pacers aim to build on their impressive victory.