Context:

Tyrese Haliburton's last-second three-pointer sealed an unexpected win for the Indiana Pacers against the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers, giving them a surprising 2-0 lead in their playoff series. Despite being heavy underdogs, the Pacers staged a remarkable comeback from a 20-point deficit, winning both games on the road. The Cavaliers, struggling without key players due to injuries, were unable to maintain their lead even after Donovan Mitchell's impressive 48-point performance. Haliburton's crucial rebound and game-winning shot underscored his pivotal role in the Pacers' victory, marking the first time since 1994 that the team won the first two games of a playoff series on the road. The series will continue with Game 3 in Indiana, where the Pacers aim for a second consecutive appearance in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Dive Deeper:

• Tyrese Haliburton hit a decisive three-pointer with just 1.1 seconds left on the clock, securing a 120-119 victory for the Indiana Pacers against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 2 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs.

• The Pacers, ranked fourth in the Eastern Conference, entered the series as underdogs but managed to take a commanding 2-0 lead by overcoming a 20-point deficit against the Cavaliers.

• Cleveland's efforts were hampered by the absence of key players, including NBA Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley and reserve De’Andre Hunter, both injured in Game 1, along with Darius Garland, who missed his fourth straight postseason game.

• Despite Donovan Mitchell's remarkable performance, scoring 48 points, the Cavaliers were unable to hold their lead in the final moments, with costly errors including a turnover during a crucial timeout.

• Tyrese Haliburton played a significant role in the comeback, scoring 11 of his 19 points in the final quarter, and securing his own rebound before making the pivotal three-pointer.

• The victory marked the first time since 1994 that the Pacers have won the first two games of a playoff series on the road, setting a strong foundation as they head into Game 3.

• The series will continue with the next game in Indiana, where the Pacers aim to secure a place in the Eastern Conference Finals for the second consecutive year.