Pacers surge past Mavericks 135-131 with Siakam's late steal and Nembhard's clutch three

On March 19, 2025, the Indiana Pacers pulled off a thrilling 135-131 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in a high-paced game that showcased both individual brilliance and team resilience. The Pacers' win came down to a remarkable late-game surge that saw them rally from an 11-point deficit with just six minutes remaining. A combination of clutch performances from Pascal Siakam, Bennedict Mathurin, and Andrew Nembhard helped secure the Pacers' victory in an exciting finish at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Pascal Siakam’s Leadership

Pascal Siakam, the newly acquired star for the Pacers, was absolutely essential to the win, leading his team with 29 points and contributing in multiple facets of the game. His offensive output included a variety of drives to the basket, mid-range jumpers, and some sharp shooting from beyond the arc. But Siakam’s biggest contribution came in the final seconds when he came up with a pivotal steal. With the game in the balance and the Mavericks leading by one, Siakam intercepted an inbound pass, quickly transitioning the play to create a game-changing moment. Siakam’s steal setup Andrew Nembhard for a go-ahead three-pointer with just 14.7 seconds left, giving the Pacers a 131-130 lead. Siakam’s leadership, both offensively and defensively, was evident throughout the game, showcasing his value as an all-around player. 

Bennedict Mathurin’s Fourth-Quarter Brilliance

Bennedict Mathurin, the Pacers’ young talent, proved why he’s such an exciting player for the future of the franchise. Mathurin’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, especially in the fourth quarter, where he scored 16 of his 23 total points. His scoring outburst helped turn the tide in the Pacers' favor, with Mathurin displaying poise under pressure and making key baskets when the team needed him most. Whether it was attacking the rim with authority or knocking down a couple of timely three-pointers, Mathurin was instrumental in the comeback. His ability to create his own shot and capitalize on the Mavericks' defensive lapses was a crucial factor in the game. 

Andrew Nembhard’s Clutch Playmaking

Another critical figure in the Pacers’ rally was Andrew Nembhard, who finished the game with 22 points, eight assists, and was vital in orchestrating the offense. Nembhard displayed incredible composure in the final moments, running the offense with precision and making key passes to set up his teammates. But his most memorable play came when he drained the go-ahead three-pointer after Siakam's steal. Nembhard’s ability to execute in high-pressure situations helped the Pacers capitalize on their defensive stops, and his timely shot ultimately sealed the game for Indiana. Nembhard continues to grow as a leader on the floor, proving that his poise and decision-making under pressure are assets the Pacers can rely on.

The Mavericks’ Struggles Without Luka Dončić

While the Pacers’ victory was a testament to their teamwork and clutch play, the Mavericks also showed their resilience despite missing their star player, Luka Dončić. With Dončić sidelined, the Mavericks were forced to rely on a more collective effort. P.J. Washington stepped up with a team-high 26 points, but it wasn’t enough to fend off the Pacers’ late-game surge. Jaden Hardy, Spencer Dinwiddie, Max Christie, and Kai Jones all contributed in varying degrees, but they struggled to match the firepower of the Pacers down the stretch. Despite their valiant efforts, the Mavericks couldn’t execute when it mattered most, and their inability to close out the game left them on the losing end of a hard-fought contest.

Game Dynamics and Turning Points

The game was a back-and-forth affair from the opening tip, with both teams exchanging leads throughout. Early on, the Mavericks seemed to be in control, leveraging their shooting and pace to build a comfortable lead. But the Pacers never backed down, staying within striking distance and keeping the game close with some key runs of their own. The Mavericks’ 11-point advantage late in the fourth quarter seemed to signal a potential win, but Indiana refused to let go. The Pacers’ defense tightened, and their offense found rhythm with crucial baskets from Mathurin and Nembhard. Siakam’s timely steal and Nembhard’s clutch shot completed the Pacers’ dramatic comeback.

Playoff Implications
With the victory, the Pacers improved to 39-29, solidifying their position in the Eastern Conference playoff picture. As the regular season continues to wind down, games like this are pivotal for teams fighting for playoff positioning. The Pacers’ ability to close out tight games with key plays from their stars shows they have the mettle needed for a deep playoff run. Their victory also highlighted the team’s depth and the rising talent of players like Siakam, Mathurin, and Nembhard, all of whom will be crucial in the Pacers' postseason aspirations.
On the other hand, the Mavericks, now facing a 35-33 record, are feeling the absence of their star player. While players like P.J. Washington have stepped up, they have yet to find the necessary consistency without Dončić in the lineup. The Mavericks will need to adapt quickly if they hope to remain competitive in the Western Conference playoff race.