The Indiana Pacers pulled off a stunning 126-118 comeback win over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday, April 13, 2025, rallying from a 23-point deficit with just over seven minutes left in regulation. The double-overtime victory capped off an impressive regular season for Indiana, marking their 50th win — a milestone they hadn’t reached since the 2013–14 season.
Quenton Jackson Leads the Charge in OT Comeback
Quenton Jackson led the Pacers with 21 points, while RayJ Dennis delivered a clutch performance in double overtime, scoring seven critical points, including a go-ahead three-pointer that pushed Indiana ahead 118-111. Tony Bradley added 14 points, including a key hook shot that gave Indiana its first lead since the first quarter.
Despite missing two starters and four key rotation players, the Pacers (50-32) showed resilience and depth, locking in the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference. They’ll now prepare for a first-round playoff matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks, with home-court advantage secured.
Cavaliers Rest Starters, Jaylon Tyson Shines
The Cavaliers (64-18), already locked into the No. 1 seed, opted to rest most of their regular rotation. Jaylon Tyson took full advantage, scoring a career-high 31 points in just his sixth NBA game. Emoni Bates contributed 25 points, while rookie Nae’Qwan Tomlin notched 24 points and 12 rebounds in his first career start.
Veteran center Jarrett Allen was the only Cleveland starter to suit up, making NBA history by becoming the third player to average at least 13 points per game while shooting over 70% from the field (13.5 PPG, 70.6 FG%).
Historic Collapse for Cleveland
Cleveland led by as many as 27 points in the third quarter and held a commanding 96-73 lead before Indiana stormed back with a massive 32-9 run. The game was tied 105-105 with 10.5 seconds left in regulation, sending it into a dramatic overtime finish.
Indiana took three out of four games from Cleveland during the regular season. With both teams on opposite ends of the bracket, a potential rematch in the second round of the playoffs could be on the horizon.
What’s Next?
- Pacers: Will face the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round of the NBA Playoffs.
- Cavaliers: Await the conclusion of the Eastern Conference Play-In Tournament to determine their first-round opponent.
