The Indiana Pacers orchestrated a remarkable comeback to stun the Phoenix Suns, securing a 133-131 victory. Obi Toppin's crucial putback with 3.4 seconds remaining broke the tie, capping off a 17-point comeback. Toppin, finishing with 23 points and 11 rebounds, praised his team's defensive adjustments, particularly in the decisive fourth quarter, disrupting Devin Booker's scoring rhythm.
Despite Booker's early scoring brilliance, including a 29-point first quarter, the Suns faltered in the final quarter, managing only 17 points. Booker, who set a Phoenix record for first-quarter points, had an opportunity to win the game at the buzzer but slipped on the inbounds pass and missed a contested 3-pointer. It marked the first time since 1977-78 that multiple players scored 60 points in a losing effort during one season.
Devin Booker, with 62 points, recorded his second 50-point game of the season and the seventh of his career. However, the Pacers, led by Pascal Siakam's 31 points, emerged victorious for the second consecutive night despite missing injured All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton.
The Pacers fought back from a 54-37 second-quarter deficit, closing the halftime gap to 80-70 and steadily chipping away in the second half. Andrew Nembhard's crucial plays helped tie the game at 129-129, setting the stage for Toppin's game-winning putback.
The Pacers' resilience in overcoming deficits against formidable opponents in back-to-back games highlighted their determination and ability to thrive under pressure.
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