Hibbert sits, Kobe explodes, Pacers win
By TYLER SMITH
ISL Editor
(Photo by Pacers Sports and Entertainment)
INDIANAPOLIS — Outside of the Golden State Warriors coming to Indianapolis, Monday night’s game against the Lakers had the most anticipation of the season. Longtime former Pacer Roy Hibbert was set to make his return, and Kobe Bryant was making the final appearance of his career to Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Unfortunately for the fans, Roy Hibbert didn’t play due to an ankle injury. Kobe Bryant, however, put on a show late in the game.
After leading 64-47, the Pacers gave up 12 unanswered points to end the third quarter, setting the stage for Bryant’s heroics. He had struggled mightily in the first three quarters, but made four consecutive shots in the fourth, including three from behind the arc. One of his 3’s tied the game at 79, and his next one gave the Lakers an 82-79 lead.
With chants of “Kobe” echoing across Bankers Life Fieldhouse, the game went from a preseason feel to a postseason atmosphere in a hurry.
The Pacers have collapsed under the pressure many times this season, but that wasn’t the case tonight. After trailing 84-80, the Pacers scored nine straight points in the final minutes and ended up winning by a final score of 89-87. Paul George, who idolized Kobe Bryant growing up, made the big plays late to seal the victory.
Coach Frank Vogel wasn’t thrilled with the late game collapse, but was just happy to get a win: “If we took care of business when we had the lead, it wouldn’t have gotten to those moments” he said. “It’s an area we have to grow.” Vogel added: “I’m not unhappy that’s the last time I have to face Kobe Bryant. I’ll put it that way.”
(Photo by Pacers Sports and Entertainment)
Paul George finished with 21 points and nine rebounds. Kobe Bryant scored 19 points on 6-of-25 shooting. Both teams shot under 40% for the game.
Myles Turner had another big game with 14 points and 13 rebounds. The Pacers were a plus+18 with Turner on the court. He also made some big plays late. “That kid’s not scared,” Vogel said. “He’s not scared of the moment. It’s one thing to produce, but to make timely plays when your team needs it, that’s a great sign.”
Bryant had a lot of great things to say about the Indiana fans as he reflected on his final time playing here: “They’ve always been great and have always been tough on me,” Bryant said. “For them to give me a thank-you chant at the end of the game was pretty special. As far as I can tell, this is as close to a college atmosphere as it gets. It’s been great playing here.”
The Pacers improved to (28-24) on the season, and have now won two straight games. They’ll look to win a third straight on Wednesday at home against the Charlotte Hornets.
Follow Tyler on Twitter/Periscope @TylerSmith_ISL
