The Indiana Pacers executed a stunning comeback in the fourth quarter, overcoming the Chicago Bulls with a thrilling score of 113-110 in a game held on January 28, 2026, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
In a remarkable display of determination, Pascal Siakam led the way for the Pacers, netting 13 of his total 20 points during the decisive fourth quarter. Indiana managed to finish the game strong, outscoring their opponents 26-9 in the final stretch, which allowed them to flip the script after trailing by 14 points with just over seven minutes remaining.
Andrew Nembhard also played a pivotal role, contributing significantly with 18 points, along with nine assists and six rebounds. After being down by 101-87, the Pacers showcased their resilience by tying the game at 105 with only two minutes left on the clock.
As the teams exchanged baskets in the closing moments, Nembhard's jumper with 39.7 seconds left marked a turning point, granting the Pacers their first lead since they were ahead 10-8 early in the first quarter. Following a timeout, Nikola Vucevic responded with a 3-pointer that briefly put the Bulls back in front. However, Indiana reclaimed the lead at 111-110 thanks to Aaron Nesmith's layup with just 13.9 seconds remaining.
In a tense final sequence, Coby White's layup attempt was blocked by Nesmith, who then added two free throws to seal the victory for Indiana. This marked only the second time this season that the Pacers have triumphed in 32 games when trailing after three quarters.
Alongside Siakam and Nembhard, Jarace Walker scored 16 points, Bennedict Mathurin contributed 15 points, Nesmith added 14 points, and Jay Huff chipped in with 10 points. Impressively, the Pacers have now won all three encounters against the Bulls this season.
On the opposing side, Vucevic was the standout for the Bulls, leading his team with 25 points and grabbing nine rebounds. Matas Buzelis supported the effort with 20 points and eight rebounds, while Ayo Dosunmu added 19 points. Coby White scored 14 points, and Jalen Smith recorded his eighth double-double of the season with 13 points and 11 rebounds against his former team.
Josh Giddey also made a valuable contribution with 10 points and seven assists. Unfortunately for the Bulls, this loss marked their second consecutive defeat after a promising four-game winning streak.
Chicago initially took control of the game, building a substantial 12-point lead in the first quarter, ending the period with a 33-24 advantage. Vucevic's jumper had the Bulls ahead 49-40 late in the second quarter, but the Pacers fought back, narrowing the gap to 53-49 by halftime. Buzelis emerged as the leading scorer for the Bulls in the first half, while Walker and Nembhard each added 10 points for Indiana. The third quarter saw Mathurin tie the game at 64 with two free throws before Vucevic and Isaac Okoro ignited a 10-3 run with consecutive 3-pointers, allowing the Bulls to end the quarter leading 85-76.
This exciting matchup serves as a reminder of just how unpredictable and thrilling basketball can be. What do you think about the Pacers' remarkable turnaround? Do you believe they can maintain this momentum moving forward? Share your thoughts in the comments!
