Pacers Stun Thunder in Dramatic NBA Upset at Paycom Center
In a stunning reversal of fortune, the Indiana Pacers delivered one of the biggest surprises of the NBA season, defeating the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder 117-114 on Saturday, January 24, 2026. The game took place at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, the very arena where the Pacers' championship hopes were dashed last season.
Underdog Pacers Defy Odds in Thrilling Contest
Entering the matchup as significant 16.5-point underdogs, the Pacers flipped the script with a resilient performance that snapped their three-game losing streak. This victory marks a pivotal moment for Indiana, improving their record to 11–35, though they remain at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings.
The Pacers have been navigating a challenging season, particularly after the devastating injury to superstar Tyrese Haliburton, who suffered a torn Achilles tendon in last year's heartbreaking Game 7 loss. Despite this setback, the team showcased remarkable grit and determination against the league's top squad.
Key Performances Propel Indiana to Victory
Andrew Nembhard emerged as the standout player for the Pacers, delivering what many are calling the signature performance of Indiana's season. He poured in 27 points and dished out 11 assists, orchestrating the offense with precision and poise.
Second-year forward Jarace Walker also made a significant impact, erupting for a career-high 26 points. His aggressive play, including a memorable layup defended by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Branden Carlson, highlighted his growing confidence and skill set.
The Pacers received contributions across the roster. Pascal Siakam added 21 points, while Aaron Nesmith chipped in 17 points, five rebounds, and five assists. Micah Potter provided a crucial lift off the bench with a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds, underscoring the team's depth and collective effort.
Thunder's Stellar Efforts Fall Short
Despite the loss, the Oklahoma City Thunder demonstrated why they hold the best record in the league at 37–9. Reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander carried the team with an impressive 47-point performance, showcasing his elite scoring ability. Chet Holmgren added 26 points and 13 rebounds, but it wasn't enough to secure the win against a determined Pacers squad.
Walker Reflects on Meaningful Win
Following the game, Jarace Walker emphasized the importance of this victory for the Pacers' morale and development. He stated, "Going out how we did last year, it was definitely circled on the calendar and it was a great team win." This sentiment reflects the team's focus on redemption and building momentum as they navigate the remainder of the season.
This upset serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of the NBA, where underdogs can rise to the occasion and challenge even the most dominant teams. For the Pacers, it's a step forward in a rebuilding year, offering hope and excitement for their fans.
