Pacers pull off historic comeback for their 50th win of the season

In Cleveland, the Indiana Pacers faced a significant deficit against the Cleveland Cavaliers in their regular-season finale on April 14, 2025. Trailing by 23 points with just 7:35 left in the game, the Pacers orchestrated a dramatic comeback, led by Quenton Jackson who scored 21 points. Despite missing key starters, the team rallied impressively, determined to secure their 50th victory of the season, which hadn't been achieved since the 2013-14 season. The game exemplified the grit and depth of the Pacers, with pivotal contributions from players who typically see limited action. While the Cavaliers rested several of their main players after clinching the top seed in the Eastern Conference, Indiana utilized this opportunity to showcase their bench strength. The team's surge, particularly a 32-9 run in the final quarter, turned the game around and pushed the score to a tie before heading into overtime. RayJ Dennis, another standout performer, scored seven points in the double overtime, solidifying the Pacers’ resolve. Rick Carlisle, the Pacers’ coach, praised his players for their inspirational performance. He acknowledged that the team's depth played a key role in overcoming the substantial deficit against a well-established opponent. The victory not only marked a milestone for the Pacers but also highlighted their potential ahead of the playoffs, where they will face the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round. This stunning comeback win also set a record for the Pacers, being their largest comeback in franchise history, surpassing their previous record from 2014. The resilience shown by the team amidst challenging circumstances has generated optimism among fans as the playoffs approach, showcasing a squad capable of competing at a high level despite facing adversities throughout the season.