Tyrese Haliburton delivered a stellar performance with 23 points and eight assists as the Indiana Pacers secured a much-needed 132-123 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Friday night.
The win ended a four-game losing streak for Indiana and showcased their offensive firepower in a game where six players scored in double figures.
Pascal Siakam added 21 points for the Pacers, while Bennedict Mathurin chipped in 19. Indiana’s offensive efficiency was on full display as the team shot an impressive 56.5% from the field, including a season-high 62.1% from three-point range.
Haliburton Leads the Charge
Haliburton’s impact was felt not only in his scoring but also in his ability to orchestrate the offense. He drained five three-pointers and was the catalyst for Indiana’s game-sealing moments. His leadership shined brightest during a critical juncture in the fourth quarter when Chicago threatened to erase a double-digit deficit.
With 6:53 remaining, the Bulls had closed the gap to 112-109 on a layup by Josh Giddey. Haliburton responded immediately, knocking down a clutch three-pointer to spark an 8-0 run that gave Indiana breathing room. The Pacers never looked back, maintaining control down the stretch.
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Balanced Scoring Drives Pacers
Indiana’s balanced attack proved too much for Chicago to handle. Alongside Haliburton, Siakam and Mathurin provided steady contributions, while Myles Turner stretched the floor with timely three-point shooting. The Pacers’ ability to spread the ball around kept the Bulls’ defense scrambling, leading to open looks and high-percentage opportunities throughout the game.
LaVine’s Heroics Not Enough
Zach LaVine was electric for the Bulls, finishing with a game-high 32 points. Coby White added 19 points and nine assists, while Ayo Dosunmu chipped in 15. Despite the strong individual performances, Chicago’s inability to match Indiana’s efficiency ultimately proved costly.
The Bulls shot 42% from three-point range, connecting on 21 of 50 attempts, but their struggles inside the arc were evident. Indiana outscored Chicago 56-42 in points in the paint, taking full advantage of their opportunities near the basket.
Key Moment: Second-Quarter Surge
The Pacers’ victory was built on a dominant second quarter. Trailing by five points entering the frame, Indiana erupted with a scorching 11-of-13 shooting start, flipping the script with a 24-9 run. By the end of the quarter, the Pacers had outscored the Bulls by 17, turning a close contest into a commanding halftime lead.
Key Stat
Indiana’s precision from deep was the difference-maker. The Pacers connected on 18 of their 29 three-point attempts, with Siakam and Turner each going 3-for-5 from beyond the arc. The team’s ability to stretch the floor and capitalize on open looks was a defining factor in their victory.
Takeaways
For the Pacers, this win showcased their offensive potential when firing on all cylinders. Haliburton’s leadership, combined with the team’s depth and three-point accuracy, makes them a dangerous opponent when they play with confidence. Ending their losing streak provides a crucial morale boost as they aim to build momentum moving forward.
For the Bulls, the loss highlights ongoing defensive inconsistencies. While their three-point shooting was solid, their struggles in the paint and inability to slow Indiana’s offensive rhythm left them vulnerable. Zach LaVine continues to shine as a scorer, but Chicago will need more cohesive play on both ends to sustain success.
What’s Next
The Pacers return home to face the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday, looking to build on their offensive momentum. Meanwhile, the Bulls continue their three-game homestand with a tough matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers, hoping to rebound from this loss and find defensive answers.
Indiana’s victory not only ends their recent skid but also underscores their potential to compete in a crowded Eastern Conference. With Haliburton leading the way, the Pacers proved they can rise to the occasion when the stakes are high.