Indiana Pacers vs Cleveland Cavaliers Game 5 Playoffs

In a dramatic Game 5 on May 13, 2025, the Indiana Pacers eliminated the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers from the NBA Playoffs with a 114–105 victory at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, securing their second consecutive trip to the Eastern Conference Finals.

The Cavaliers started strong, establishing a 19-point lead in the first half. However, the Pacers, led by Tyrese Haliburton’s 31 points and eight assists, orchestrated a remarkable comeback. A pivotal 55–24 run, including a 17–2 surge in the third quarter, shifted the momentum in Indiana’s favor. Pascal Siakam contributed 21 points and eight rebounds, while Andrew Nembhard added 18 points and six assists, showcasing the team’s depth and resilience.

Despite Donovan Mitchell’s valiant effort—scoring 35 points while battling ankle and calf injuries—the Cavaliers struggled with efficiency, shooting just 25.7% from beyond the arc. Darius Garland’s 3-for-14 shooting night further hampered Cleveland’s offense. The loss marked the Cavaliers’ third consecutive home defeat in the series, a first in franchise playoff history, and concluded a season that began with a franchise-record 64 wins.

The Pacers’ victory not only highlighted their tenacity but also underscored their emergence as a formidable force in the Eastern Conference. They now await the outcome of the Knicks vs. Celtics series to determine their opponent in the Conference Finals, with a potential rematch against Boston looming.

This game epitomized the unpredictability of the playoffs, where momentum can shift rapidly, and underscored the Pacers’ capacity to overcome adversity and defy expectations.