A Record-Setting First Half
The Indiana Pacers put the league on notice Sunday night with a 129-109 dismantling of the Cleveland Cavaliers — a win defined by one of the most lopsided halves in NBA playoff history. Indiana led 80-39 at the break, tying the largest halftime lead ever recorded in the postseason.
“Complete domination by them,” admitted Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson. “That’s the story. In every facet.”
The Pacers forced 14 turnovers in the first half and held Cleveland to just eight made field goals. Indiana’s energy and execution overwhelmed a Cavaliers team that had looked reinvigorated in Game 3.
Carlisle’s Tone: No Celebrations Yet
Despite the historic performance and a commanding 3-1 series lead, Rick Carlisle refused to let his team get ahead of itself.
“We haven’t done anything yet,” Carlisle said. “This game is now history. We’ve got to stay in the present moment.”
His players followed suit, echoing the coach’s measured confidence.
“Coach is a savant when it comes to adjustments,” said Tyrese Haliburton. “He sets the tone.”
Depth Over Stars
While Haliburton finished with a modest 11 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds, the Pacers’ balance carried them. Obi Toppin, Pascal Siakam, and Myles Turner each scored 20 points, and Indiana torched the Cavs’ zone defense by shooting 60% from the floor and 50% from deep.
“They talked about physicality all series,” Haliburton said. “Tonight we flipped that.”
Indiana matched its highest scoring output of the playoffs and dominated every phase of the game.
Cavaliers on the Brink
The top seed in the East now faces elimination — and more bad news may be coming. Donovan Mitchell is set to undergo an MRI on his left ankle Monday. Without him, Cleveland’s Game 5 hopes take another hit.
Garland led the Cavs with 21 points, but the frontcourt faltered: Mobley had just 10 points, and Jarrett Allen was limited to 2 points and 2 rebounds.
“They raised their level, and we didn’t match it,” said Atkinson.
A Warning From Carlisle
Game 5 shifts back to Cleveland on Tuesday. Carlisle expects a desperate and dangerous response from the regular-season leaders.
“There’s going to be a big haymaker coming,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of work left.”
Up Next:
• Game 5: Tuesday in Cleveland
• Donovan Mitchell: Ankle MRI pending
• Series: Indiana leads 3-1
