Cleveland – Tyrese Haliburton, once again, proved his worth as the leader of the Indiana Pacers, scoring a crucial three-pointer with only 1.1 seconds remaining on the clock, securing a heartbreaking 120-119 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. This triumph gives them an unexpected 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference semi-final series.
In an electrifying end to the game, Indiana managed to score the last eight points in just 47.9 seconds. Haliburton, with 11 of his 19 points in the final quarter, was fundamental to the comeback, facing a Cavaliers team that, despite their difficulties, failed to secure the victory at home.
The key moment of the game came after Andrew Nembhard stole the ball from Max Strus, with 27.5 seconds remaining. With the ball in Haliburton’s possession, the Pacers sought to tie the game. The point guard drove to the free throw line, making the first, but missing the second. However, Haliburton grabbed the offensive rebound, retreated to the top of the key, and sank the three-pointer that silenced the crowd in Cleveland.
“I was upset because I missed the layup and couldn’t keep the ball,” Haliburton confessed. “So I went back. I saw Ty Jerome in front of me, and I just threw it up. This is the NBA; crazier things have happened. That’s basketball. We don’t give up. We’re battle-tested.”
Tyrese Haliburton
The Cavaliers, who led the Eastern Conference, suffered their second consecutive home defeat, and now must react urgently in the third game, which will be played in Indianapolis.
With a mix of confidence and serenity, Haliburton and the Pacers continue to exceed expectations, being only two wins away from reaching the conference finals.
