Pacers Beat Cavaliers 99-93 In Summer League Opener

Rienk Mast Takes Over in Las Vegas

Rienk Mast anchored the Pacers with 16 points and 11 rebounds, including seven offensive boards that kept possessions alive. The Nebraska product, who spent the last two college seasons with the Cornhuskers, scored the first five points of the game and erupted for a early three‑pointer. When the Cavaliers closed within a single point late in the fourth quarter, Mast drew a foul, knocked down the free throw, and later scored a layup‑foul combination to push the lead back to six. His steady play proved crucial as the Pacers held on for a 99‑93 victory in their Summer League debut.

Mast’s performance was especially noteworthy given his undrafted status and the fact that the Pacers entered the weekend as a modest auditioning squad. He scored seven of the team’s first 11 points and finished 6‑of‑12 from the field, with just one miss from deep. His ability to finish extra possessions and absorb physical play in the post gave the Pacers a reliable interior presence that the roster had lacked.

Jalen Slawson Provides Defensive Firepower

Jalen Slawson logged 15 points, six rebounds, five assists and an eye‑catching five blocks for the Pacers. The former two‑way player, now a restricted free agent, showed why he was named first‑team all‑defense in the G League last season. Despite shooting just 4‑of‑15 from the floor and committing six fouls, Slawson hit four free throws and recorded a crucial steal that underscored his defensive versatility.

His impact extended beyond the stat sheet; a first‑quarter miscue on a three‑point attempt was immediately punished by a blocked fast‑break dunk, encapsulating his defensive intensity. Even with occasional lapses on offense, Slawson’s presence forced the Cavaliers to adjust their inside game and gave the Pacers a legitimate rim protector for the rest of the summer.

Smith and Kawamura Spark Middle Quarters

Brad Smith and Yuki Kawamura orchestrated the Pacers’ turnaround, outscoring the Cavaliers 32‑15 in the third and fourth quarters. Smith contributed 5 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals, while Kawamura added 8 points and 4 assists with a plus‑four rating. Their fast‑passing, small‑backcourt combo created open looks for teammates and elevated the team’s tempo.

Their synergy was praised by assistant coach Johnny Carpenter, who noted that both players “force everyone around them to move” and get the squad “organized and running hard up and down the floor.” Despite being just 5‑10 and 5‑7, respectively, their court vision turned the half‑court into a motion‑offensive showcase, offsetting the Pacers’ limited size.

Cavs Count on Thomas, Tomlin and Branham

Meleek Thomas and Nae’Qwan Tomlin each posted 20 points, while Malakhi Branham added 15 for the Cavaliers. The trio provided the only bright spots for Cleveland as they fought to keep pace with the Pacers’ balanced attack. Despite early quarter struggles, the Cavs managed a 14‑11 edge at the end of the first period, showing they can compete when their scorers are hot.

Their scoring burst forced the Pacers to rely on extra possessions from Mast and a clutch three from Taelon Peter to seal the win. Still, the Cavaliers displayed enough offensive punch to remain competitive in a tough Summer League field.

The game underscored the Pacers’ depth and defensive potential, with Mast’s leadership and Slawson’s rim protection forming the backbone of the victory. As the roster continues to shape up, the opener offers a foundation of trust in players who can step up when needed.