UP-DATE: Pacers privation to Heat in NBA Cup Matchup

UP-DATE: Pacers privation to Heat in NBA Cup Matchup

The Pacers lose to the Heat in their NBA Cup matchup.

The Indiana Pacers suffered a tough defeat to the Miami Heat in the NBA Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday night, falling 112-98 in a highly anticipated showdown. Despite a valiant effort, the Pacers were unable to keep up with the Heat’s scorching second-half performance, ending their hopes of advancing in the inaugural in-season tournament.

The game was closely contested in the opening half, with both teams exchanging leads throughout the first two quarters. Pacers’ star guard Tyrese Haliburton set the tone early, scoring 14 points in the first half and facilitating the offense with his signature passing. Center Myles Turner also had a solid first half, contributing 10 points and anchoring the defense. At the break, the Pacers were up by three, leading 53-50, and looked poised to push for a spot in the semifinals.

However, the Heat came out firing in the second half, with Jimmy Butler leading the charge. Butler, who had been relatively quiet in the first half, erupted for 18 points after the break, showcasing his clutch scoring ability. He hit multiple key shots down the stretch, including a critical three-pointer with 4:30 left in the game that put the Heat up by 12 points, effectively sealing the victory.

Miami’s depth also played a pivotal role in the win. Bam Adebayo continued to dominate inside, finishing with a double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds. The Heat’s supporting cast, including Tyler Herro and Caleb Martin, provided timely scoring, making it difficult for the Pacers to find any rhythm on either end of the floor.

Despite their struggles, Indiana fought until the final buzzer. Haliburton finished with a team-high 24 points, but he was inefficient from the field, shooting just 8-of-22. The Pacers also struggled from beyond the arc, making only 10 of their 31 attempts. The absence of consistent shooting and defensive lapses in the second half ultimately doomed Indiana’s chances.

For the Heat, the win was another example of their ability to rise to the occasion in big moments. With the victory, they advanced to the semifinals of the NBA Cup, where they will face the winner of the matchup between the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers.

Indiana will now shift its focus back to the regular season, looking to rebound from the loss and continue their pursuit of a playoff spot.