Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle credited his team’s defensive focus and timely scoring in the fourth quarter for Monday night’s 116-105 victory over the Sacramento Kings at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Carlisle highlighted that after a lapse in the third quarter, the Pacers “found a way to flip it back in our favor” during the decisive 17-point final frame.
Carlisle singled out Andrew Nembhard for his leadership, noting, “Nembhard was spectacular, you know, with 28 [points] and 12 [assists]. That’s a big-time game.” He praised the point guard’s ability to navigate tough defensive matchups, hit crucial shots, and create opportunities for teammates.
The coach also emphasized the contributions of Pascal Siakam and Bennedict Mathurin, who, along with Nembhard, combined for 76 points. “Those three guys were great… Mathurin hit huge shots, Pascal produces great numbers virtually every night, and Nembhard was really special,” Carlisle said. He described their balanced production as key to maintaining control in the fourth quarter.
Defensive rebounds and hustle plays were also highlighted as critical. Carlisle pointed to Nembhard’s knack for loose balls and offensive rebounds, calling his performance “very solid” and “even-keeled,” helping Indiana maintain possession in crucial moments.
Carlisle praised young players, particularly Jarace Walker, who contributed 12 points off the bench and recorded a key steal in transition. “I just liked his demeanor and his tone during the game,” Carlisle said, noting that Walker’s response to earlier struggles showed growth and poise.
Despite a Kings rally that erased a 19-point deficit and briefly gave Sacramento a 101-97 lead, Indiana’s perimeter shooting and timely plays allowed the Pacers to regain control. Mathurin’s catch-and-shoot three and Nembhard’s three straight scoring possessions shifted momentum back to Indiana, illustrating the team’s resilience.
Carlisle emphasized the value of veteran leadership in maintaining composure during tight stretches. “He and Pascal are our two leaders… he led us in the fourth quarter in a big way,” Carlisle said, underlining the importance of experience in critical game moments.
Indiana improved to 6-18, matching its season-best two-game winning streak and earning its fourth win in six games. Sacramento fell to 6-18, struggling with turnovers and shooting inconsistencies despite Russell Westbrook’s fourth triple-double of the season.
The Pacers will travel to Philadelphia to face the 76ers on Friday, aiming to build on their recent resurgence, while the Kings return home to face the Denver Nuggets on Thursday.
