The Indiana Pacers opened preseason play with a 122-97 victory in opposition to the Charlotte Hornets.

The Pacers began the sport robust, opening up a double-digit lead within the first quarter largely due to their protection. Indiana has emphasised their protection all through coaching camp and it confirmed — Charlotte scored simply 30 factors within the first 20 minutes of motion.

On the offensive finish, the blue and gold have been led by Myles Turner within the first half. He had 12 factors and three assists within the first two quarters because the Pacers appeared dominant. It was Turner’s first NBA sport since January, and he solely performed within the first half.

The second half started with a unique story. Charlotte lower the lead right down to 9 after an enormous third quarter run, and Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle took a timeout through the surge to gradual issues down.

However Indiana responded and ballooned their lead again to twenty+ earlier than the third quarter ended — they led 95-68 after three frames. The Pacers let their lead slip a bit to open the fourth quarter, however they by no means gave up their benefit and held on for the victory.

Indiana shot 26/27 from the charity stripe, which performed an enormous position within the crew’s victory. Turner and Aaron Nesmith every made a half-dozen foul pictures within the win.

Nesmith was spectacular in his first sport for the Pacers. The previous Boston Celtic, who Indiana acquired in a commerce this summer time, led the Pacers in scoring with 16 and made some good defensive performs. His athleticism was obvious from begin to end on each ends. 

In his debut for the blue and gold, Bennedict Mathurin completed with 15 factors on 5/10 taking pictures. He was in a position to creep into the lane for floaters and layups all through the evening, and he made all 5 of his foul pictures. His protection was spectacular at occasions as properly.

Energy ahead Jalen Smith dominated on the glass, ending with a stat line of 9 factors and 10 rebounds. It was his first time enjoying within the frontcourt alongside Turner.

Rising expertise Tyrese Haliburton completed with 5 factors and team-high six assists for the Pacers. Indiana continues preseason play on Friday in New York in opposition to the Knicks.

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