By Scott Agness
Roy Hibbert had his second double-double of the playoffs with 10 points, 13 rebounds and a block in Wednesday’s Game 5 win.
Back at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on Wednesday night, the Pacers weren’t thinking about winning three games. Their simple focus was on taking it one game at a time. Having beaten the Heat three times already at home this season gave them confidence.
Indiana trailed by nine points at half, but outscored Miami by 16 points in the third period to overcome an 11-point deficit. Paul George exploded in the second half, particularly in the fourth quarter, scoring 21 in the frame – more than any other player for the entire game – to lead the Pacers to a 93-90 victory.
The Pacers were the aggressors early in the contest, sending it inside on nearly every possession. Roy Hibbert, who was scoreless in had four points and five rebounds in the opening quarter. The Pacers shot 50 percent, got at least four points out of each of their starters, and dominated the glass.
The Pacers’ play out of the locker room resembled their third quarter success during much of the regular season. They were in their gaps, had active hands, and for maybe the first time this series, made the Heat uncomfortable. Offensively, their passes were crisp and their cuts were sharp. The Pacers went on a 16-2 run and outscored the Heat in the period, 31-15, with all five starters contributing in their own way.
“(James) was going to attack and finish in the paint. And I think he had a little bit of edge … so I just wanted to go over there and help and I think GHill got my back and contested the three.” – Roy Hibbert on the final play
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