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Pacers break historic record in win over Cavaliers
Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton. Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Pacers break historic record in win over Cavaliers

The Indiana Pacers made history on Thursday night, breaking a longstanding NBA record during a thrilling 114-112 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The win not only solidified their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race but also etched the Pacers' name into the league's record books. 

Indiana’s 107th consecutive home game with 100-plus points surpassed the San Antonio Spurs' previous record of 106 straight games, set between 1978 and 1981. 

The historic achievement places the Pacers at the forefront of offensive excellence, a feat that has become a hallmark of their play style this season.

The remarkable streak highlights the Pacers' offensive firepower, which has become a defining characteristic of the team. Tyrese Haliburton, the central figure in their attack, delivered another stellar performance against Cleveland, scoring 23 points, including eight crucial points in the final stretch to help secure the win. 

Haliburton also contributed eight rebounds, 10 assists, and three blocks, hitting four three-pointers in the process. His leadership continues to propel the Pacers' success as they maintain a high-scoring, fast-paced style of play.

Aaron Nesmith added 22 points, while Myles Turner chipped in with 13 points, seven rebounds, and four blocks. The victory also clinched home-court advantage for the Pacers in the playoffs, their first such advantage in 11 years. 

This marks a significant milestone in the team’s growth and offers an opportunity for a deep playoff run with the added benefit of a favorable environment at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

With a 49-31 record, Indiana is now just one win away from securing its first 50-win season since 2013-14. The Pacers are currently one game behind the New York Knicks, sitting fourth in the East with two games remaining. 

They will face the Orlando Magic, currently in the play-in tournament, on Friday, followed by a rematch against the Cavaliers on Sunday to close out the regular season.

The record-breaking milestones represent a significant step in the Pacers’ journey, setting the stage for a potential deep playoff run. With its elite offense, Indiana could be poised to be a legitimate playoff contender, and its historic achievement serves as added motivation heading into the postseason.

It's worth noting that Cleveland coach Kenny Atkinson rested four of his five starters in the loss, as the Cavaliers have already clinched the top seed in the East. However, the Pacers' win stands regardless, as they continue their record-breaking campaign and look ahead to the postseason with momentum.

Matt Evans

Matt Evans is a sports journalist from the United Kingdom, now based in Paris, France. He has covered various sports including basketball, soccer, boxing, MMA, and motorsports.  Over the past decade, Matt has focused heavily on the NBA and has worked with many established outlets on a variety of content

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