Nets stun Pacers in 98-90 win, snapping Indiana's four-game skid

The Indiana Pacers lost their fourth consecutive game on Sunday night, falling at home to the Brooklyn Nets by a score of 98 to 90.

The season began with a 12-10 lead for Brooklyn, sparked by a three-pointer from Julius Randle with less than five minutes remaining in the first quarter. That basket erased Indiana's 10-9 advantage and started a trend that persisted through the first half. Despite shooting only 38 percent from the field, the Nets held a 43-40 lead at the break. Indiana managed just 32 percent from the field and connected on four of 20 three-point attempts during that period.

The Nets maintained control for the majority of the third quarter, building a 12-point lead three separate times. However, the Pacers mounted a brief comeback in the opening minutes of the fourth quarter. Larry Nance Jr. and Andrew Nembhard hit back-to-back three-pointers to trim the deficit to 75-72. That 75-72 mark remained the closest Indiana came to Brooklyn for the rest of the contest.

Michael Porter Jr. led the Nets with 23 points, while Randle contributed 20. Day'Ron Sharpe recorded a double-double with 15 points and 13 rebounds, the latter being a team high. Brooklyn also dominated the glass, out-rebounding Indiana 43 to 37. For the Pacers, Nembhard finished with 23 points and Pascal Siakam added 17.

The roster issues for the host team continued. Coach Rick Carlisle confirmed that Obi Toppin missed his second straight game due to a lower back injury but is progressing well. Carlisle said Toppin could be available to play on Monday. The Pacers are also without Ivica Zubac, who is dealing with a left ankle sprain. Tyrese Haliburton remains out with a hamstring strain and is expected to miss at least another 10 days.

The Nets rested rookie Mikel Brown Jr. for load management purposes, as Brooklyn prepares to face the New York Knicks on Monday night. The Pacers will host the Atlanta Hawks on Monday night.

The Nets' win marks their first victory of the season. Indiana's loss extends their current losing streak to four games.