The Indiana Pacers defeated the host Sacramento Kings, 126-121, at Golden One Center on Thursday.

Indiana never relinquished the lead after a 34-31 first quarter, taking control with a 36-26 second quarter. Sacramento did get it down to a five-point margin in the closing seconds but never attempted a game-tying shot in the second half. The Pacers shot 55 percent from the field while holding the Kings below 52 percent shooting. They also shot 79 percent from the free-throw line (15-of-19), while the Kings shot just 56 percent (18-of-32). Indiana outscored Sacramento in the paint, 62-54.

The Pacers (24-17) were led by Bennedict Mathurin, amassing 25 points, three rebounds, four assists and two blocks. TJ McConnell tallied 20 points and 10 assists. Myles Turner totaled 18 points and two rebounds. Jalen Smith accrued 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Buddy Hield had 12 points, six rebounds and eight assists.

The Kings (23-18) were led by Kevin Huerter, collecting 31 points, two rebounds, four assists and two steals. Keegan Murray generated 27 points, nine rebounds and two steals. De'Aaron Fox accumulated 24 points, five rebounds and six assists, while Domantas Sabonis finished with 21 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists.

Indiana has to play again on Friday, staying on the road to play the Portland Trail Blazers. As for Sacramento, they're off until Monday, when they play host to the Atlanta Hawks.