Pacers rookie hits game-winning shot to defeat Nets

Kam Jones drains clutch 3-pointer after previous turnovers to seal comeback victory

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Indiana Pacers rookie Kam Jones hit the game-winning 3-pointer in the final seconds to lead his team to a comeback victory over the Brooklyn Nets. Despite turning the ball over on back-to-back possessions earlier, Jones remained confident and knocked down the clutch shot to seal the win for the Pacers.

Why it matters

The game-winning shot by Jones was an impressive display of poise and confidence from the young rookie, who is looking to prove his worth in the Pacers' backcourt as the team aims to tank the rest of the season after trading their 2026 first-round pick.

The details

With the score tied at 110-110 and 17 seconds remaining, Jones salvaged a broken possession by draining a stepback 3-pointer late in the shot clock to give the Pacers the lead. Indiana then sealed the victory with a stop on the other end. Jones finished the game with 11 points, 2 rebounds and 6 assists on 5-of-12 shooting in 31 minutes.

  • The game-winning shot occurred with 17 seconds remaining in the 4th quarter.

The players

Kam Jones

A 23-year-old rookie guard for the Indiana Pacers, selected 38th overall in the 2026 NBA Draft out of Marquette University.

Rick Carlisle

The head coach of the Indiana Pacers, who praised Jones for his confidence and ability to bounce back after previous turnovers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He's undaunted. He's a confident kid. He just plays, and he always believes in himself. And he made the biggest shot in his life.”

— Rick Carlisle, Head Coach, Indiana Pacers (clutchpoints.com)

“I was just thinking of responding to [my previous two turnovers]. That's over with. I'll deal with that, learn from that later. Right then, it's let's do what we gotta do to win. When I had the ball those last few seconds, I pretty much knew I was shooting a three. I hadn't made any, but all my threes felt good all game. After my stepback, before I even went up and let it fly, I was like, 'Oh yeah, this is good.'”

— Kam Jones (clutchpoints.com)

What’s next

The Pacers will look to give Jones more playing time and opportunities to prove himself as they aim to tank the rest of the season after trading their 2026 first-round pick.

The takeaway

Jones' game-winning shot showcased his poise and confidence, even after previous mistakes, and highlights the Pacers' willingness to give their young players chances to shine as the team focuses on the future.