Australian guard Johnny Furphy recorded the first double-double of his NBA career, contributing 10 points and 10 rebounds. Despite his effort, the Indiana Pacers fell to the Toronto Raptors with a final score of 115-101 at home on March 15, 2024. The game marked yet another setback for the struggling Pacers, who now hold a league-worst record of 9-32.
The Raptors dominated the match, never trailing throughout the game. Brandon Ingram led Toronto with a game-high 30 points, including two critical three-pointers in the final quarter. Scottie Barnes also made a significant impact, contributing 26 points and 13 assists. Off the bench, Gradey Dick added 21 points and 11 rebounds, helping Toronto improve to a 25-17 record.
With just over four minutes remaining, the Pacers managed to cut the deficit to four points. However, Ingram quickly sealed the game for Toronto, showcasing his scoring ability at crucial moments. Pascal Siakam supported Indiana with 26 points and 10 rebounds, while Andrew Nembhard and Quenton Jackson each scored 14 points.
This performance marks a milestone for Furphy, who had previously come close to achieving a double-double in earlier games. The 21-year-old from Melbourne played over 26 minutes as a starter, shooting 50% from the field, in addition to making two assists and recording two blocks. His development continues to be a bright spot in an otherwise challenging season for the Pacers.
In related NBA action, fellow Australian Tyrese Proctor scored two points and secured one rebound for the Cleveland Cavaliers during their commanding 133-107 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 35 points, while Darius Garland and Evan Mobley contributed 20 and 17 points, respectively. The 76ers saw Joel Embiid and Paul George lead their scoring with 20 and 17 points.
Additionally, the New Orleans Pelicans achieved a much-needed 116-113 win against the Brooklyn Nets, with Trey Murphy III scoring 34 points and Zion Williamson adding 25. This victory comes after the Pelicans had lost 11 of their previous 12 games, bringing their record to 10-33.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bulls managed to edge past the Utah Jazz with a final score of 128-126. Nikola Vucevic led his team with 35 points, including the decisive lay-up in the dying moments of the game. Bryce Sensabaugh had a standout performance for the Jazz, scoring a career-high 43 points.
As the season progresses, the Pacers hope to turn their fortunes around and find a path to improvement, with players like Furphy showing potential for growth in the league.
