NBA fans were treated to a full course of postseason drama on Sunday night, 4 May 2025, as the Indiana Pacers delivered a seismic upset in Cleveland while the Golden State Warriors silenced critics with a resilient Game 7 victory in Houston. It was a night of defiance, redemption, and brilliance — exactly what the NBA Playoffs are made for.
Pacers Turn the Tables on Top-Seeded Cavaliers
If anyone still doubted Tyrese Haliburton’s ability to lead on the biggest stage, those doubts were extinguished at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. The Indiana Pacers’ floor general put on a commanding display, scoring 22 points, dishing out 13 assists, and playing elite-level defence as he guided the fourth-seeded Pacers to a 121-112 road victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference semi-final series.
Much had been made of Haliburton being voted the league’s most overrated player in a recent anonymous player survey. But on Sunday night, he flipped the narrative entirely. His second made 3-pointer of the game — just 2-of-6 on the night — was a dagger. It sparked a 15-4 fourth-quarter run that effectively broke Cleveland’s resistance.
Haliburton’s efforts were ably supported by Andrew Nembhard, who top scored with 23 points, including two clutch 3s during that closing burst. Pascal Siakam and Aaron Nesmith each added 17, and all five Indiana starters finished in double figures — a testament to the team’s balance and commitment to Carlisle’s game plan.
Most impressive of all was Indiana’s three-point barrage: 19-for-36 from beyond the arc, a 52.8% clip that proved the ultimate equaliser. In contrast, the Cavaliers, who were second in the league in 3-pointers made during the regular season, struggled badly — shooting just 9-of-38 (23.7%) from deep.
Donovan Mitchell did everything he could, pouring in 33 points and setting an NBA record with his eighth straight 30+ point performance in a series opener. But his 1-of-11 shooting from beyond the arc underscored Cleveland’s offensive inconsistency, particularly in the absence of Darius Garland, who missed his third straight game due to a toe injury.
The Cavaliers rallied in the third quarter to briefly lead in the fourth, but Indiana’s poise — especially Haliburton’s block-turned-layup play with just over two minutes left — ensured the upset was sealed.
It was also a win for bettors, with America Bet’s tip of Haliburton over 8.5 assists landing comfortably, and the game total tipping over the projected points line of 227.5. The predicted Indiana score of 111 was almost spot on, while the Cavs fell just a few baskets shy of the projected 118.
Golden State Holds Firm in Houston Heat
Later that evening, all eyes turned to the Toyota Center where Golden State and Houston faced off in a pulsating Game 7 that determined who would survive the first-round gauntlet. After blowing a 3-1 lead, the Warriors needed every ounce of their championship DNA — and they got it.
Stephen Curry, quiet for much of the game, came alive when it mattered most. He dropped 14 of his 22 points in the fourth quarter, closing the door on a Houston team that had dreams of becoming just the 14th team to overturn a 3-1 deficit in playoff history.
But it wasn’t Curry who led the scoring — that honour belonged to Buddy Hield. The sharp-shooter exploded for 33 points, including nine 3-pointers, in one of the most devastating playoff shooting performances in recent memory. His long-range barrage was the spark the Warriors needed to keep pace early and then surge late.
Jimmy Butler also chipped in with 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists in a performance that showcased his two-way intensity and veteran leadership — vital traits for a team still adjusting to his midseason arrival.
The Rockets, valiant as they were, simply ran out of gas. Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks gave their all, but the inexperience that had haunted them in Games 1 and 3 resurfaced under the bright lights of Game 7. Golden State’s 103-89 victory was sealed by a fourth quarter that emphasised discipline, poise, and defence.
It was also a good night for bettors who followed America Bet’s Game 7 preview. The under 222.5 total points cashed easily, and Hield’s 3-point total would have smashed any line set under 4.5. While the prediction slightly favoured Houston in a close one, the margin-of-victory tip — between 6 to 10 points — was very nearly spot-on before late free throws pushed the final lead to 14.
What’s Next?
The Pacers have momentum, swagger, and shooting touch — but Cleveland will surely adjust in Game 2. Whether Garland returns could be a series-defining moment.
As for the Warriors, they now advance to face the Minnesota Timberwolves in what should be a fascinating series between veteran grit and youthful athleticism. Expect more fireworks.
To stay ahead of the game, visit America Bet for daily NBA betting insights, predictions, and expert analysis. Whether you’re riding the underdogs or backing proven playoff performers, our previews and tips are your ultimate edge during postseason play.
