INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana Pacers hold a 67-56 halftime advantage over the Chicago Bulls on Thursday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, powered by an efficient offensive first half.
The Pacers controlled the opening quarter, closing it on a 12-4 run to lead 39-33. They maintained that momentum in the second period, extending their lead to as many as 13 points by outscoring the Bulls 28-23. Indiana’s ball movement and interior scoring proved consistent, preventing any sustained Chicago comeback attempt.
Pascal Siakam led all scorers with 17 first-half points on 8-of-11 shooting, adding three assists. Center Jay Huff provided a major spark off the bench with 14 points, including two three-pointers. Ben Sheppard facilitated well with a team-high four assists.
For the Bulls, rookie Matas Buzelis paced the effort with 11 points and seven rebounds. Guards Tre Jones and Collin Sexton each added 10 points, but Chicago was hampered by a cold stretch to end the half and was out-rebounded 22-17.
The Bulls will need a defensive adjustment to slow the Pacers’ 56% shooting if they hope to rally in the second half.
