Pacers Eliminate Top-Seeded Cavaliers In Eastern Conference Semifinals

The Indiana Pacers advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals after eliminating the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers in five games, with Tyrese Haliburton leading the way with 31 points in a decisive 114-105 Game 5 victory. The Cavaliers, who finished the regular season with a conference-best 64-18 record, suffered an 'epic choke' as they lost all three home games in the series, raising doubts about the team's current roster and championship prospects. Injuries played a significant role in Cleveland's downfall, especially with star Donovan Mitchell battling ankle and calf issues and scoring only 12 points in a limited Game 4 appearance before rebounding for 35 points in Game 5. Despite the efforts of Mitchell and Evan Mobley, Cleveland's supporting cast failed to deliver, while Indiana's depth and resilience proved decisive. The Pacers' comeback from a 19-point deficit in Game 5 and their ability to win three games on the road marked a historic achievement for the franchise. Indiana now awaits the winner of the Celtics-Knicks series for their next challenge in the Eastern Conference Finals.