Andrew Nembhard elevated his play in the Indiana Pacers' recent first-round playoff series. He played a large role in the Pacers' advance past the Milwaukee Bucks, contributing on both ends of the floor.
Nembhard averaged 15.0 points per game against the Bucks, a rise from his 10.0 points per game average in the regular season. His shooting percentage also improved, hitting 49.2% overall and 50% from 3-point range in the postseason series. He added 4.8 assists, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per contest over 32.2 minutes.
This uptick in production follows a trend from last season's playoffs, where his scoring also increased from the regular season. His father, Claude Nembhard, notes that Andrew focuses intensely in important moments, using the phrase "Lock In" as a reminder.
This focus comes from Andrew Nembhard's background in high-pressure environments. He played above his age group in youth leagues and attended Montverde Academy and Gonzaga, participating in nationally televised games and tournaments before entering the NBA.
With the Pacers, Nembhard has taken on responsibilities beyond scoring, serving as a secondary ball-handler and a primary defender on opposing guards. Teammate Tyrese Haliburton stated Andrew embraces competition, including guarding top players nightly.
The Pacers offense has adjusted in the playoffs, directing more opportunities to Nembhard as opponents concentrate on stars like Haliburton and Pascal Siakam. His field goal attempts rose from 8.3 per game in the regular season to 11.8 in the playoffs, with his 3-point attempts increasing from 2.7 to 4.4 per game.
Despite finishing the regular season in a shooting slump, Andrew Nembhard saw his efficiency return against the Bucks. When asked about the difference, he simply stated, "The ball went in more times." His strong defense earlier in the season earned him Eastern Conference Defensive Player of the Month honors in January.
Nembhard recorded 15 points, six rebounds, six assists, and three steals in Indiana's 119–118 overtime win over the Bucks in Game 5, securing the series victory. He made a key steal in overtime that helped the Pacers complete a comeback. Pacers eliminate Bucks in Game 5 comeback win.
The Indiana's 119–118 overtime win advances the Pacers to the second round. They are scheduled to play the No. 1 seed Cavaliers next.
"He's a guy with a strong will who has a strong belief in himself and the work he puts in," Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said. "He has simply stayed with it."
