Pacers Secure Playoff Spot with 119-105 Win Against Hornets

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The Indiana Pacers clinched a playoff spot for the second consecutive year by defeating the Charlotte Hornets, 119-105, on Wednesday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The victory comes just one day after the Pacers secured their postseason berth when Atlanta lost to Portland.

Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton led the team with 22 points and 10 assists, while Myles Turner celebrated his 31st birthday with 16 points and 15 rebounds. The win marked the Pacers’ third victory in their last four games and eighth in their last 10. Indiana is aiming for home-court advantage in the playoffs for the first time since 2014.

“Everyone stepped up tonight,” Haliburton said. “We’ve been working hard to secure our spot and it feels great to achieve that goal.”

Charlotte, struggling with injuries and a disappointing season record of 19-57, faced a tough opponent in Indiana. The Hornets, who have lost six out of their last seven games, battled throughout but could not take control after the first quarter. They were led by Terry Rozier, who scored 18 points, while Mark Williams contributed 16 points and 12 rebounds.

The Pacers set the tone early, making seven 3-pointers in the first quarter. Although Charlotte managed to cut Indiana’s lead to four points midway through the second quarter, the Pacers extended their advantage to 64-49 before halftime.

Charlotte rallied briefly, pulling within one point at 68-67 in the third quarter. However, Indiana responded with a crucial 19-6 run, solidifying their lead.

A pivotal moment occurred when a turnover by the Hornets led to an alley-oop from Haliburton to Turner, pushing the Pacers ahead 81-71 and energizing the home crowd. Indiana limited Charlotte to only one more field goal in the quarter, leading 87-73 by the end of the third.

Key statistics from the game highlighted Charlotte’s struggles, as they committed 18 turnovers to Indiana’s six. The Pacers capitalized on these mistakes, outscoring the Hornets 29-4 in points off turnovers.

Looking ahead, Charlotte will host Sacramento on Friday, while Indiana will face Utah at home, hoping to secure their playoff positioning.