Rick Carlisle delivers a harsh message after surprising stand against OKC
The Indiana Pacers dropped their season opener in double overtime to the Oklahoma City Thunder, 141-135, but the effort showed plenty of fight. Without star point guard Tyrese Halliburtonwho is out for a year with a torn Achilles, Indiana pushed the defending champions to the limit at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
Tyler Smith of Indy Sports Legends shared Carlisle’s postgame comments to X after the loss.
“This group is tough. There’s not going to be any sugar pill to solve the challenges that come every night. We’re just going to have to have the attitude that we love the challenge of the NBA when you’re not complete,” Carlisle said.
Benedict Maturin led the way with 36 points and 11 rebounds before fouling out in the first overtime. Pascal Siakam had 32 points and 15 boards, while Obi Taupin added 20 off the bench. The Pacers matched Oklahoma City’s intensity throughout regulation and the first overtime before running out of steam in the second overtime.
The injury situation continues to be brutal for Indiana. Andrew Nembhard left the game with a sore left shoulder after taking over full-time point guard duties. TJ McConnell is out at least a month with a hamstring injury and rookie Cam Jones sat out with back pain.
A depleted backcourt has forced Carlisle to rely heavily on unconventional lineups and extended minutes for its top scorers. Those adjustments have kept Indiana competitive, but Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a game-high 55 points for Oklahoma City, which ultimately proved to be too much down the stretch. The Thunder outscored the Pacers 17-11 in the second overtime to seal the win.
Despite the loss, Indiana’s competitiveness against its rematch opponent in the finals showed the team’s determination. The Pacers hit the road next, starting with Memphis on Oct. 25 before facing Minnesota and Dallas. Carlisle’s emphasis on embracing adversity will be immediately tested as his shortstop team navigates a tough early schedule.
2025-10-24 05:58:00
