The Indiana Pacers demonstrated remarkable resilience in their regular-season finale, overcoming a staggering 27-point deficit to secure a 126-118 victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers after double overtime. Quenton Jackson led the charge with 21 points, while rookie Johnny Furphy contributed significantly with 15 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists. This victory marked the Pacers' first 50-win season since 2013-14, ending with a 50-32 record and clinching the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. In contrast, the Cavs finished the season with a league-best 64-18 record.

The game showcased the depth of the Pacers’ roster, as their bench players rallied after the starters had checked out early in the game. Facing adversity against a team that had led comfortably for much of the match, the Pacers went on a remarkable 24-2 run late in the fourth quarter. Despite a lackluster shooting performance overall, with significant struggles from beyond the arc, they managed to push the match into overtime and eventually claim victory in the second overtime period. The Pacers will now face the Milwaukee Bucks in the playoffs, a matchup that will test their depth and resilience further.

Johnny Furphy has made a significant impact during the Indiana Pacers' record-breaking victory over the Washington Wizards, helping his team set new franchise highs for points and three-pointers in a single game. With a final score of 162-109, the Pacers achieved a new scoring record, surpassing their previous mark of 157 points. Tyrese Haliburton led the team with 29 points, while Furphy notably contributed by hitting a three-pointer that helped set the record.

This win solidified the Pacers' position in the playoff race, and they only need two more wins to secure a playoff spot. Furphy, who has seen limited action this season, has been productive in the G League, showcasing his potential for future contributions.

The Indiana Pacers survived yet another chaotic game, narrowly defeating the Brooklyn Nets 108-103 despite a dramatic fourth-quarter collapse. With Tyrese Haliburton back in the lineup, the Pacers started strong, leading by 20 points entering the final period. However, they faltered offensively, scoring only two points in the first 7:47 of the quarter, allowing the Nets to close the gap rapidly.

Coach Rick Carlisle noted the importance of learning to maintain leads against lower-ranked teams like the Nets, emphasizing the need for improvement as the playoffs approach. Still, the Pacers managed to hold on to their lead and secured their fourth consecutive win, maintaining their playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference.

The Indiana Pacers have announced the demotion of rookie guard Johnny Furphy to their G League affiliate, the Indiana Mad Ants, aiming to give him more playing time. This is Furphy's second assignment to the Mad Ants this season, having previously been sent down on November 6. The 20-year-old, who stands at 6-foot-8, was selected with the No. 35 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft out of Kansas.

Furphy has struggled in his debut NBA season, averaging only 2.6 points with shooting splits of .382 from the field, .344 from three-point range, and a perfect 1.000 from the free-throw line over 23 games. In addition to his scoring woes, he has also contributed 1.3 rebounds per game in an average of 9.1 minutes on the court. Prior to joining the Pacers, he was recognized as a Big 12 All-Freshman Team member, averaging 9.0 points and 4.9 rebounds during his only season at Kansas.

The Indiana Mad Ants currently hold a record of 3-2 for this season, looking to capitalize on Furphy’s development during his time in the G League as he seeks to improve his performance and regain a spot on the Pacers’ roster.

The Indiana Pacers' 2024 NBA Draft picks, Johnny Furphy and Enrique Freeman, have had modest beginnings in their professional careers. Despite this, the Pacers are currently enjoying a five-game winning streak, holding the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference with a 15-15 record.

Grant Hughes from Bleacher Report has given the rookie class a C+ grade. Furphy, the No. 35 pick, has shown promise with a notable three-point shooting percentage, while Freeman, selected 50th, has struggled to find consistent playing time.