Nets Rookies Shine But Lose Late Lead to Pacers

Brooklyn's young players impress, but the team falters down the stretch in loss before All-Star break.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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In a matchup between two struggling teams, the Brooklyn Nets led for most of the game against the Indiana Pacers before collapsing late to lose 115-110 at home. With several key players out, the Nets' rookie class stepped up, combining for 65 points, 20 rebounds and 16 assists. Center Day'Ron Sharpe had another standout game with 19 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks. However, the Nets turned the ball over 11 times in the third quarter, allowing the Pacers to rally, and their offense went cold in the fourth as Indiana pulled out the victory.

Why it matters

While the loss hurts in the moment, it could ultimately benefit the Nets' long-term rebuild, as it helps their draft lottery odds. The performance of the team's rookie class, especially Sharpe, is an encouraging sign that Brooklyn may have found some key pieces for the future despite their struggles this season.

The details

The Nets were without several key players, including Michael Porter Jr., Nic Claxton and Noah Clowney, while the Pacers were missing Pascal Siakam, Andrew Nembhard and Ivica Zubac. Brooklyn's rookie group of Egor Demin, Nolan Traore, Danny Wolf, Drake Powell and Ben Saraf combined for 65 points, 20 rebounds and 16 assists. Traore led the way with 20 points and 8 assists. Sharpe continued his strong play, recording a double-double with 19 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks.

  • The game was played on February 12, 2026, the final game before the NBA's All-Star break.

The players

Day'Ron Sharpe

A second-year center for the Brooklyn Nets who had a standout performance with 19 points, 12 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals and 2 blocks.

Nolan Traore

A rookie guard for the Brooklyn Nets who led the team's young players with 20 points and 8 assists.

Indiana Pacers

The opposing team, who rallied in the second half to overcome a double-digit deficit and defeat the Nets.

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What’s next

The Nets will look to bounce back after the All-Star break as they continue their rebuilding process, with the performance of their young players providing hope for the future.

The takeaway

Despite the disappointing loss, the Nets' rookie class showed promising signs, with Day'Ron Sharpe and Nolan Traore leading the way. While the team's struggles continue this season, these young players are providing optimism for the franchise's long-term outlook.