Ivica Zubac bounces back in Pacers' opener against Pelicans
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 23, 2026, 7:24 PM
Last updated Oct 23, 2026
Ivica Zubac struggled in the first half of the Indiana Pacers' season opener against the New Orleans Pelicans on October 21. After a halftime message from coach Rick Carlisle about intensity, Zubac improved significantly, finishing the game with 15 rebounds and 8 points. The Pacers were trailing by 10 at halftime but made a comeback in the second half, aided by Zubac's defense and rebounding. Zubac expressed appreciation for Carlisle's coaching style, which he felt helped elevate his performance.
- •Zubac had just three rebounds in the first half.
- •Pacers trailed by 10 points at halftime.
- •Zubac grabbed 12 rebounds and scored 8 points in the second half.
- •Pacers outscored Pelicans by 10 points with Zubac on the floor in the fourth quarter.
- •Carlisle's halftime message spurred Zubac's improved play.
- 7:24 PMYahoo Sports — Fueled By Halftime Message, Ivica Zubac Shows Why Pacers Traded For Him
"Ivica Zubac had a sluggish first half to open his Indiana Pacers season. A strong message from Rick Carlisle got him on track.
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