Andrew Nembhard Has Been the Unsung Hero for Indiana Pacers

Andrew Nembhard Has Been the Unsung Hero for Indiana Pacers originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Andrew Nembhard has emerged as a key difference-maker for the Indiana Pacers throughout their Cinderella postseason run.

Nembhard’s impact often goes beyond the stat sheet, but he has been a reliable secondary playmaker and versatile defender during the 2025 NBA Playoffs.

In Game 1 of the NBA finals, Nembhard posted a stat line of 14 points, four rebounds, and six assists to help the Pacers steal a 111-110 road win over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Nembhard’s two-way impact was instrumental down the stretch as Indiana mounted their thrilling comeback.

"He made plays at both ends," Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle said of Nembhard's contributions. "The one stop on Shai at the end was a big play, and then we got the rebound. There was the step-back three, which was a big momentum play. I think it went from six to three. And there was an and-one, he got to the rim...A lot of big plays and you've got to have playmakers against Oklahoma City. They make it so difficult defensively."

Nembhard provided a steadying presence for Indiana in his first-ever NBA Finals game, playing both under control and in rhythm on the offensive end of the floor. Nembhard was also tasked with guarding Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, forcing his Olympic teammate to go just 3-of-9 against him in their head-to-head matchups.

“If there’s a guy that we want guarding the last possession, it’s Drew,” Pacers guard T.J. McConnell said.

Nembhard and the Indiana Pacers will look to secure another road victory in Game 2 of the NBA Finals on Sunday at 7 p.m. CST.

Related: How Indiana Pacers Will Rely on Andrew Nembhard vs. New York Knicks

Related: Caitlin Clark Reacts to Indiana Pacers' Comeback Performance

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.