Pacers End 13-Game Drought as Carlisle Reaches 1,000th Coaching Victory in Dramatic Win over Hornets

Key Takeaways:

• Indiana defeated Charlotte 114-112 to halt a 13-game losing run
• Rick Carlisle achieved his 1,000th career coaching win, bringing his NBA record to 1,000-891
• LaMelo Ball came off the bench for the first time since January 30, 2021 and scored 33 points for the Hornets

Match Analysis

Indiana emerged victorious in Charlotte, edging the Hornets 114-112 on Thursday night to break a 13-game losing streak and provide head coach Rick Carlisle with his landmark 1,000th win. Pascal Siakam delivered a superb performance, posting 30 points and 14 rebounds, and driving to the basket for a decisive layup with 11.5 seconds remaining. The result finally lifted Carlisle from 999 career victories, a number he’d held since Indiana’s triumph over Sacramento on December 8, despite the squad’s ongoing injury challenges.

Only the 11th coach in NBA history to reach 1,000 wins.

Congrats, Coach Carlisle! pic.twitter.com/7KpeztMV7b

— Indiana Pacers (@Pacers) January 9, 2026

Coach Carlisle’s Milestone

Rick Carlisle now stands with a career coaching record of 1,000 victories and 891 defeats over 24 NBA seasons. The milestone, delayed by Indiana’s recent difficulties, underscores his resilience and influence throughout a lengthy coaching tenure.

Key Player Performances

T.J. McConnell contributed significantly with 23 points and eight assists, while Aaron Nesmith added 16 to the Pacers’ tally. For Charlotte, LaMelo Ball provided a spark off the bench, leading all Hornets scorers with 33 points – including seven made three-pointers – and notching eight assists. The Hornets, however, suffered a second consecutive agonising home defeat, having lost to Toronto the previous night on Immanuel Quickley’s buzzer-beating three-pointer. This contest marked Ball’s first appearance as a substitute since January 30, 2021, a tactical choice by coach Charles Lee to manage Ball’s physical workload due to his history of ankle issues. Collin Sexton started at point guard in Ball’s stead but was unable to steer Charlotte to victory.

Decisive Final Moments

After Siakam put Indiana ahead in the closing seconds, T.J. McConnell intercepted the subsequent inbounds pass. Ben Sheppard managed to sink one of two free throws, affording Charlotte an opportunity with 8 seconds left to attempt a tie or game-winner. The Hornets’ play unravelled, with Collin Sexton’s jumper bouncing off the front rim and the hosts failing to secure the rebound. Tensions flared in the third quarter, resulting in Charlotte’s Brandon Miller being ejected for arguing with officials; he exited the contest with six points.

Upcoming Fixtures

• Indiana will host Miami on Saturday night
• Charlotte will travel to Utah on Saturday night