Pacers Dominate Pelicans in Summer League Showdown

The Indiana Pacers opened their 2026 NBA Summer League campaign with a commanding 91-73 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on July 19 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. Behind a balanced offensive attack and stifling defense, the Pacers built an early lead and never looked back, showing the depth and potential of their young core.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, Indiana set the tone on both ends of the floor. The Pacers shot 48% from the field while holding New Orleans to just 37% shooting, including a 4-of-18 mark from three-point range. Indiana's bench outscored the Pelicans' reserves 42-28, a key factor in the lopsided result. The Pacers also forced 17 turnovers, converting them into 22 points.

Key Moments

• First quarter surge: Indiana jumped out to a 28-16 lead after 12 minutes, fueled by 10 fast-break points and aggressive drives to the rim.
• Second-half control: New Orleans trimmed the deficit to nine points early in the third quarter, but the Pacers answered with a 15-4 run, capped by a step-back three from rookie guard Elijah Foster, pushing the lead to 20.
• Defensive pressure: Indiana recorded eight steals and four blocks, disrupting the Pelicans' rhythm throughout the second half.

Standout Players

Forward Jalen Ramsey led all scorers with 22 points on 9-of-16 shooting, adding seven rebounds and three assists. Second-year guard Malik Brooks contributed 17 points, six assists, and four steals, showcasing his two-way potential. For the Pelicans, rookie center Kai Thompson posted a double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds, but received little support from the perimeter.

Season Impact

While Summer League results have limited direct bearing on the regular season, this win provides early momentum for Indiana's young roster. The Pacers, who are in a rebuilding phase, will look to develop chemistry among their prospects. New Orleans, meanwhile, will aim to address offensive spacing and ball security before their next game. Both teams return to action later this week in the Las Vegas Summer League.