The Indiana Pacers (31-23) secured a 127-113 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies (36-19) on Thursday night, led by Tyrese Haliburton’s 22 points and nine assists. Myles Turner contributed 17 points, 10 rebounds, and a season-high seven blocks to help Indiana pull away.
Despite missing their first seven field goals and opening 0-for-8 from beyond the arc, the Pacers erupted for a season-best 78 points in the first half. Seven Indiana players finished in double figures as the team overcame an early 20-7 deficit.
Desmond Bane paced Memphis with 23 points and seven assists, while Jaren Jackson Jr. added 18 points and seven rebounds. Ja Morant finished with 12 points in a limited offensive showing.
Zach Edey, the two-time NCAA Player of the Year, had five points and 11 rebounds in his first NBA game in Indiana. The Grizzlies initially threw the Pacers off balance with alternating lineups featuring Edey, but their defensive struggles proved costly.
Indiana took its first lead at 48-46 before Turner ignited a 23-4 run, giving the Pacers a commanding 78-50 halftime advantage. Memphis cut the deficit to 91-87 in the third quarter, but Indiana responded with seven straight points to regain control.
The Pacers shot 50.5% from the field and connected on 17 three-pointers, including a 12-of-19 stretch in the first half. They also dominated the paint with Turner’s rim protection, finishing with 12 total blocks.
Pascal Siakam scored 16 points, while Bennedict Mathurin added 16 off the bench. Aaron Nesmith and Obi Toppin combined for 25 points, helping Indiana outpace Memphis in transition.
The Grizzlies struggled from beyond the arc, shooting 30.8% from deep while committing 13 turnovers. Memphis found brief momentum in the third quarter but failed to sustain its push as the Pacers capitalized on second-chance opportunities.
