The Indiana Pacers advanced to their second consecutive Eastern Conference Finals after defeating the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers 114-105 in Game 5 on Tuesday night. Overcoming a 19-point first-half deficit, the Pacers secured the series 4-1, eliminating the Cavaliers in Cleveland.
Throughout the series, Tyrese Haliburton consistently delivered impactful performances. In Game 1, he recorded 22 points and 13 assists, contributing to the Pacers' 121-112 victory. In Game 2, he hit a game-winning three-pointer, finishing with 19 points. His leadership and clutch play were pivotal in Indiana's series win.
In Game 5, Haliburton led Indiana with 31 points and eight assists, shooting 10-of-15 from the field and 6-of-10 from three-point range.
Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0).
Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0).
Ken Blaze
Haliburton's performance was crucial in the Pacers' comeback, particularly during a 22-point surge in the second and third quarters. During Game 5, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James praised Haliburton's performance on social media, posting:
"Hali [expletive] hooping!!!! Where the lames who said he was overrated??!! Quiet as hell. That boy NICE and even more someone everyone would love to play with!"
James's comments drew criticism from some NBA fans, who felt he was not supporting his hometown team.
"Damn king, I guess you not cheering for the Cavs," a fan mentioned.
"You dead wrong for this King," one fan wrote.
"He love to see the Cavs lose when they ain't got him," another fan added.
"Tweet about the Cavs," a third fan said.
"He’s literally cooking your team," another fan posted.
With this victory, the Pacers await the outcome of the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics series to determine their next opponent. The Knicks currently lead the series 3-1.