Bennedict Mathurin shared his thoughts following Indiana’s 114-113 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. “They were the best fans in the world. Now, you know, we have different group of fans, but it’s all love,” he said about returning to Indianapolis.
Mathurin reflected on moments before tipoff with Isaiah Jackson. “Pretty much just being appreciative of being in the position that we are right now and just, you know, taking everything all in and kind of like just staying in the midst of the game,” he said.
He emphasized the bond with his former Pacers teammates. “These are my guys, man. I’ve been going to war every day for the past three years and a half with them. Even if I’m not on the same team anymore, I got to have brothers for life,” Mathurin explained.
When asked about his matchup with Andrew Nembhard, Mathurin noted the competitive energy. “It was fun, man. You talking a lot of crap. I thought I did pretty well. He couldn’t guard me. He swear he got… a lot. He couldn’t stop fouling me. It’s the only way to stop me,” he said. He also praised Drew’s potential: “This guy has a really, really bright future ahead of him. I consider him my brother.”
Mathurin discussed his growth with the Clippers. “Watching a lot of filming, the guys we communicated a little bit more. It’s been better, man… Making mistakes, but still being able to play,” he said. He added a lighter note about interactions with veteran TJ McConnell: “I don’t know what’s wrong with this guy, trying to fight like my little brother, but 10 years older than you.”
He also commented on Isaiah Jackson’s performance in Yanic Konan Niederhauser’s absence. “Just putting his head down and giving everything he got, playing hard and just being here for the team. Super happy for Zay’s success,” Mathurin said.
Regarding teammate Kawhi Leonard, Mathurin shared his admiration. “He’s different, man. It’s hard to be his teammate and not be a fan at the same time because he’s just amazing. You want to live and learn and follow his footsteps.” On Leonard’s mindset, he added, “I haven’t figured it out yet. I’m still trying. Are you inspired by it? Of course.”
Mathurin scored 17 points on 12-for-15 free throws against his former team, helping the Clippers mount a comeback from a 24-point deficit. Leonard finished with 28 points, while Darius Garland added 30. The Clippers’ rally secured coach Tyronn Lue his 400th career win.
The Pacers opened the game shooting 8-for-11 from three in the first quarter but could not hold off Los Angeles in the closing moments. Obi Toppin led Indiana with 20 points, while Aaron Nesmith added 26. The team also lost Jarace Walker to a first-half concussion evaluation.
The Clippers travel to Milwaukee on Sunday, and the Pacers host Miami.
