Clippers Stage Dramatic Comeback to Defeat Pacers in Nail-Biter

Kawhi Leonard's game-winning shot caps off Clippers' thrilling rally from 24-point deficit

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:15am

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An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors capturing the intense moment of Kawhi Leonard's game-winning shot, with the players' forms and the basketball court dissolving into expressive brushstrokes.Kawhi Leonard's last-second heroics seal a thrilling comeback victory for the Clippers over the Pacers.Indianapolis Today

The Los Angeles Clippers overcame a massive 24-point deficit to defeat the Indiana Pacers 114-113 in a thrilling NBA matchup on March 27, 2026. Led by Kawhi Leonard and Darius Garland, the Clippers mounted a furious comeback in the second half, ultimately securing the victory on Leonard's last-second game-winning shot.

Why it matters

This comeback win not only extended the Clippers' winning streak to four games, but it also marked a significant milestone for head coach Tyronn Lue, who earned his 400th career victory. The game highlighted the Clippers' depth and resilience, as well as the Pacers' inability to close out the game despite their early dominance.

The details

The Pacers jumped out to a 42-21 lead in the first quarter, thanks to an impressive 8-for-11 shooting performance from beyond the arc. However, the Clippers chipped away at the deficit, led by Leonard and Garland. In the final minute, the Pacers held a 5-point lead, but Leonard and Garland rallied the Clippers to tie the game. With 0.4 seconds remaining, Leonard hit the game-winning shot to seal the victory for the Clippers.

  • The game was played on March 27, 2026.
  • The Pacers held a 42-21 lead at the end of the first quarter.
  • With one minute remaining, the Pacers led the Clippers by 5 points.
  • Kawhi Leonard hit the game-winning shot with 0.4 seconds left on the clock.

The players

Kawhi Leonard

A star player for the Los Angeles Clippers who hit the game-winning shot to secure the victory.

Darius Garland

A dynamic player for the Clippers who contributed to the team's comeback effort.

Tyronn Lue

The head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers, who earned his 400th career victory with this win.

Obi Toppin

A player for the Indiana Pacers who hit a jumper to put his team ahead by 5 points late in the game.

Jay Huff

A Pacers player who uncharacteristically missed two free throws late in the game, allowing the Clippers to tie the score.

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What they’re saying

“We never gave up, even when we were down by 24 points. That's the kind of resilience and determination this team has.”

— Kawhi Leonard, Clippers Player

“This was a tough loss, but we have to learn from it and come back stronger. We had our chances to win, and we couldn't capitalize.”

— Obi Toppin, Pacers Player

What’s next

The Clippers will look to continue their winning streak when they face the Milwaukee Bucks, while the Pacers will host the Miami Heat in their next game.

The takeaway

This game showcased the Clippers' depth and resilience, as well as the unpredictability of the NBA. It serves as a reminder that no lead is safe, and that every team has the potential to mount a comeback, even against the odds.