Celtics Stunned Late as Siakam Lifts Pacers in Nail-Biting 98-96 Finish
Good evening and we start tonight in Indianapolis, where a game many expected to go one way took a sharp and dramatic turn right at the end.
The Boston Celtics walked into this matchup knowing it would not be easy, but few imagined they would leave with a loss to a Pacers team sitting at the bottom of the standings. Yet that is exactly what happened, as Indiana pulled off a tense 98–96 win, sealed by a clutch moment from Pascal Siakam in the final seconds.
This game was tight, physical and uneasy from the opening tip. Boston played without Jaylen Brown, their leading scorer, sidelined by back spasms. His absence loomed large all night. The Celtics struggled to find rhythm, especially from beyond the arc and that kept Indiana hanging around even when the pace slowed and shots stopped falling early.
Indiana, meanwhile, came in with the worst record in the NBA and little margin for error. But this team played with patience and belief. They leaned on Siakam’s experience and poise and they got timely help from Jay Huff, who knocked down shots and stretched the floor when the Pacers needed it most.
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The second half told the real story. Boston’s offense stalled and points became hard to find. Indiana took advantage, pushing the tempo just enough and hitting key shots to build small but meaningful leads. Still, the Celtics would not go away. Late in the fourth quarter, Derrick White drove hard to the rim to tie the game, setting up a final possession that felt destined for drama.
And that is when Pascal Siakam stepped in.
With the clock ticking down, Siakam stayed calm, sold a pump fake, stepped inside the lane and floated a high, soft bank shot off the glass. It dropped through with just seconds remaining, sending the Indiana crowd into a roar. Boston had one last chance, but the final shot fell short and the upset was complete.
For the Pacers, this win means more than just one night. It marks their first three-game winning streak of the season, a rare bright spot in a difficult year and a sign that this group is starting to find its footing despite injuries.
For the Celtics, this loss raises questions as they begin a long road trip. They remain near the top of the Eastern Conference, but nights like this show how thin the margin can be when key players are missing and shots are not falling.
A close game, a late dagger and a reminder that in the NBA, no win is guaranteed. That is how this one ends tonight.
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