The 2025 NBA Playoffs delivered another epic twist as the Indiana Pacers pulled off a remarkable comeback to defeat the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers 114-105 in Game 5, sealing the series 4-1 and punching their ticket to the Eastern Conference Finals.
What initially looked like a dominant performance by the Cavaliers quickly turned into a nightmare at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Cleveland surged to a 19-point lead early in the second quarter, fueled by fast breaks and second-chance points. But the Pacers refused to fold. Led by All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana mounted a 55–24 run that turned the game—and the series—on its head.
Tyrese Haliburton Leads the Charge
Haliburton, who’s emerged as the face of the Pacers this postseason, delivered yet another clutch performance under pressure. The 24-year-old guard dropped 31 points, dished out 8 assists, and hit six three-pointers, orchestrating a second-quarter comeback that silenced the Cleveland crowd.
“My mindset was to just stay aggressive and keep us in it,” said Haliburton postgame. “We’ve believed in each other all season long, and tonight was just another example of that trust.”
Key Contributions from Siakam, Nembhard, and Nesmith
While Haliburton stole the show, he didn’t do it alone. Veteran forward Pascal Siakam added 21 points and 8 rebounds, using his length and experience to attack the Cavaliers’ defense. Andrew Nembhard quietly notched 18 points and 6 assists, controlling the tempo whenever Haliburton sat. Aaron Nesmith provided the much-needed hustle and rebounding, finishing with a gritty double-double—13 points and 13 boards.
Their balanced effort helped neutralize a Cavaliers team that, on paper, should have been unstoppable.
Cavaliers’ Shooting Woes Continue
Despite a valiant 35-point, 9-rebound effort from Donovan Mitchell, the Cavaliers’ offense once again faltered under postseason pressure. Cleveland shot just 25.7% from beyond the arc, with starters Darius Garland and Max Strus combining for an abysmal 0-for-12 from deep.
“Credit to Indiana—they made plays when it mattered,” said Cavaliers head coach J.B. Bickerstaff. “We lost our rhythm and they never let us get it back.”
The loss brings an end to Cleveland’s dream season, which saw them finish with a 64–18 regular-season record—the best in the NBA.
Indiana’s Road Dominance Seals the Series
One of the most impressive storylines of the series has been Indiana’s road success. The Pacers claimed all three games played in Cleveland, showcasing poise and resilience rarely seen from a younger roster. They stole Games 1 and 2, dropped Game 3 at home, but responded with two straight wins to close out the series.
Head coach Rick Carlisle credited the team’s chemistry and unrelenting belief in their goal.
“We’re talking about needing eight more wins to become NBA champions,” said Carlisle. “This league is wide open. We just have to keep playing our brand of basketball.”
What’s Next for the Pacers
The Pacers now await the winner of the Boston Celtics vs. New York Knicks series. The Knicks currently lead 3–1, but Indiana has proven they can’t be overlooked, regardless of the opponent.
Reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the second straight year, the Pacers are starting to look like a legitimate title contender. With Haliburton playing like a superstar, and strong supporting performances from Siakam, Nesmith, and others, Indiana may finally be ready to return to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000.
Whether you’re a Pacers fan riding the postseason wave or a neutral viewer appreciating clutch playoff basketball, Game 5 was a statement win—proving that Indiana isn’t just here to participate—they’re here to contend.
Watch Game 5 Highlights:
