Celtics

The Celtics lost to the Pacers for the first time since January 8th.

The Celtics erased a 24-point deficit against the Pacers on Wednesday night, but ultimately fell in overtime.

Pascal Siakam shot a three-pointer from the top of the key with 7.1 seconds left in overtime, setting up the go-ahead shot at the basket. Siakam led the Pacers with a double-double with 29 points and 11 rebounds.

The shot helped Indiana survive a series of heroics from the Celtics. Jayson Tatum hit a clutch stepback 3-pointer to force overtime. Neemias Queta grabbed nine rebounds in 14 minutes to help Boston stay in the game. Derrick White was a perfect 5-for-5 shooting from 3-point range.

Jaylen Brown, who finished 1-for-11 from deep, hit a 3-pointer on the Celtics’ final possession to seal the win for Indiana.

The Celtics defeated Indiana in the Eastern Conference finals last season. Boston had won seven of its last nine games against the Pacers since November 1 of last season.

Indiana came out on top, outscoring the Celtics by 18 points. They had 10 more assists. They had eight more fast break points. The Celtics forced 19 turnovers, including several in key situations, but Indiana was able to hold on for the win.

The Celtics shot 40.4 percent from the field, their lowest mark this season. Despite the loss, Boston remains at the top of the Atlantic Division.

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Khari A. Thompson

Sports reporter

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Khari Thompson covers professional sports for Boston.com. Before joining the team in 2022, Khari covered college football for The Clarion Ledger in Jackson, Miss.

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