By Joel Bartilotta, Rotowire
LAS VEGAS — The Indiana Pacers defeated the San Antonio Spurs, 86-76, in Las Vegas Summer League at Thomas and Mack Center on Saturday.
While San Antonio led for the majority of the first half, Indiana rode a monster third quarter to victory. In fact, the Pacers outscored the Spurs 22-8 in the third quarter, as they led by at least seven points for the entirety of the fourth quarter. Defense was key for Indiana, as they recorded six steals and won the turnover differential, 12-8. In addition, the Pacers held the Spurs to just 4-of-19 from three-point range,
The Spurs (0-1) leading scorer was Derrick White, as he accrued 19 points, five rebounds and five assists. Lonnie Walker IV finished with 15 points and four boards. Chimezie Metu was the only other Spur in double figures, as he provided 12 points and five rebounds. Jaron Blossomgame totaled eight points and 10 boards.
The Pacers (1-1) best player was T.J. Leaf, as he led the team with 17 points and two boards. Aaron Holiday started at point guard and accumulated 10 points, seven rebounds, seven assists and two steals on 3-of-15 from the field. Ben Moore finished with 10 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals while Alize Johnson led the bench with 10 points and nine boards.
On deck for San Antonio is a matchup versus the Washington Wizards on Sunday. As for Indiana, they play the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday for their next fixture.
