Andrew Nembhard Finds Success in NBA 2K25

During the Indiana Pacers' magical 2024 NBA playoff run, Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam produced moments of greatness. However, one Pacers guard contributed when the chips were down, notably against the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals. Andrew Nembhard pushed the elite Boston defense as he played valiantly in the 4-0 sweep to the eventual NBA champions.

Aside from earning a three-year, $58.6 million contract extension from Indiana, the popular video game series NBA 2K noticed Nembhard's playoff contributions. Nembhard received a five-point upgrade from NBA 2K24, as he'll start the NBA 2K25 season with an 81 overall rating.

The 81 rating ranks the third-year guard at No. 87. Pacers All-Star Haliburton experienced a tough time against the suffocating Celtics defense. However, when the Pacers star struggled, Nembhard picked up the baton with the enthusiasm of a playoff veteran.

Haliburton deferred to Nembhard on many occasions in the fourth quarter. Indiana played hot potato with the ball late in games, but Nembhard grabbed the ball without mittens and seized the opportunity.

Heroically, Nembhard averaged 21 points on a highly efficient 47 percent mark from behind the three-point line. However, the Celtics depth and superstar power in Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown outlasted the Pacers, as Halibruton couldn't finish the series due to injury.

Nonetheless, Nembhard's surprising playoff performance against the Celtics merits attention, and NBA 2K did its homework. Nembhard becoming a fixture in the Pacers offense would lead to another rating enhancement.

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Indiana is more concerned with improving on a stellar 2023-24 season, but Nembhard can turn on NBA 2K25 with pride as his player model represents his growth in the league.